What is TAVR?
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) is a minimally invasive procedure used to replace a narrowed aortic valve that fails to open properly, a condition known as aortic stenosis. Unlike traditional open-heart surgery, TAVR is performed using a catheter inserted through an artery, making it a less invasive option for patients at high or intermediate surgical risk.
TAVR improves blood flow, reduces symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest pain, and enhances overall quality of life for patients with severe aortic stenosis.
When is TAVR Needed?
TAVR is recommended for individuals with:
- Severe Aortic Stenosis: When the aortic valve becomes significantly narrowed, restricting blood flow.
- High Surgical Risk: Patients who are not ideal candidates for open-heart surgery due to age or other health conditions.
- Failed Previous Valve Replacement: When a previously implanted surgical valve deteriorates.
- Symptoms of Heart Failure: Shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain caused by aortic stenosis.
The TAVR Procedure
The TAVR procedure follows these steps:
- Anesthesia: The patient is given local or general anesthesia.
- Catheter Insertion: A catheter is inserted through a blood vessel in the groin or chest.
- Valve Placement: A new artificial valve is guided into position and expanded within the damaged aortic valve.
- Valve Function Testing: The new valve is checked to ensure proper function before catheter removal.
- Closure and Recovery: The catheter is removed, and the incision site is closed.
Benefits of TAVR
TAVR offers several advantages over traditional surgical valve replacement:
- Minimally Invasive: No need for open-heart surgery or a large chest incision.
- Faster Recovery: Shorter hospital stay and quicker return to daily activities.
- Reduced Risk of Complications: Lower risk of stroke, infection, and prolonged anesthesia effects.
- Improved Quality of Life: Significant symptom relief and better heart function.
Risks and Complications
Although TAVR is a safer alternative to open-heart surgery, it carries some risks, including:
- Blood Vessel Damage: Potential injury to the arteries during catheter insertion.
- Stroke: Small risk of blood clots traveling to the brain.
- Leakage Around the Valve: Some patients may experience paravalvular regurgitation.
- Heart Rhythm Abnormalities: Pacemaker implantation may be required in some cases.
- Kidney Damage: Contrast dye used in the procedure may affect kidney function.
Recovery and Post-Procedure Care
Recovery after TAVR is generally faster than traditional surgery. Key aspects include:
- Hospital Stay: Most patients stay for 1-3 days.
- Activity Restrictions: Light activity is encouraged, but strenuous exercise should be avoided initially.
- Medication: Blood thinners may be prescribed to prevent clot formation.
- Regular Monitoring: Follow-up visits and echocardiograms assess valve function.
- Heart-Healthy Lifestyle: Diet, exercise, and risk factor management improve long-term outcomes.