TAVR

What is a TAVR?

TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure that replaces a narrowed aortic valve using a catheter-based device instead of open-heart surgery to lessen shortness of breath, chest pain, or other symptoms linked to aortic valve stenosis. TAVR also lowers your risk of serious complications. 

Who is a candidate for TAVR?

Candidates for TAVR are those with aortic valve stenosis who aren’t candidates for open heart surgery. These individuals may have severe aortic stenosis causing symptoms or other conditions, such as kidney or liver diseases, that make open heart surgery risky. Other reasons for a TAVR versus open heart surgery include older age, frailness, a weak heart, previous heart surgery, and a history of stroke.

The Pinnacle Healthcare System team determines which procedure is right for you after discussing your medical history and symptoms, checking your vital signs, completing a physical exam, and reviewing the results of heart function or other diagnostic tests. 

How should I prepare for TAVR?

Follow your provider’s instructions to get ready for a TAVR procedure. They may ask you to stop taking certain medications, avoid food and drink before your scheduled appointment, and arrange for a family member or friend to drive you home afterward.

What happens during TAVR?

You receive an IV in your hand or forearm before the procedure, as well as a sedative to help you relax. Your specialist replaces a damaged aortic valve with one made from pig or cow heart tissue (biological tissue). 

They use tiny incisions and a catheter (small hollow tube) to complete the procedure. Your specialist may put the catheter into a blood vessel in your chest or groin area to insert the biological tissue and secure it in place.

What can I expect after the procedure?

After a TAVR procedure, you may spend a night in the surgery center while heart specialists carefully watch you. When you’re discharged, have someone drive you home and stay with you. Take medications as instructed, get plenty of rest, and keep the procedure site clean. 

Eating nutritious foods, avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly after being given the OK are also important. Call the Pinnacle Healthcare System office anytime with questions and attend follow-up visits. 

Schedule an evaluation at Pinnacle Healthcare System by phone or request one online today to learn more about TAVR and if it’s right for you.