Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) is a minimally invasive procedure used to replace a diseased aortic valve in patients with severe aortic stenosis, a condition where the valve becomes narrowed and restricts blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. Traditionally, aortic valve replacement was performed through open-heart surgery, but TAVR offers an alternative for patients who are at high or moderate risk for complications from traditional surgery due to age or other health conditions. This procedure has revolutionized the treatment of aortic stenosis, offering a quicker recovery time and fewer complications.

During a TAVR procedure, a new valve is inserted via a catheter through a small incision, often in the groin or chest. The catheter, guided through the blood vessels, carries the new valve to the site of the diseased aortic valve. Once in place, the new valve is expanded, either by balloon inflation or self-expansion, pushing the old valve leaflets aside and allowing the new valve to take over the job of regulating blood flow. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia with conscious sedation, although general anesthesia may be used in some cases.

TAVR has become a game-changer, particularly for elderly patients or those with multiple comorbidities who might not tolerate open-heart surgery. It significantly improves symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue, and enhances quality of life. Studies have shown that TAVR can achieve outcomes comparable to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR), with a lower risk of complications and a faster return to normal activities. However, it still requires careful patient selection and follow-up to monitor valve function and manage potential risks, such as vascular complications or valve leakage.