TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement)
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) is a minimally invasive, advanced cardiac procedure used to treat severe aortic valve stenosis, a condition in which the aortic valve becomes narrowed and restricts blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body.
TAVR offers a life-saving alternative to open-heart surgery, especially for elderly patients or those considered high-risk for conventional valve replacement surgery.
What Is TAVR?
TAVR is a catheter-based procedure in which a synthetic valve is implanted inside the diseased aortic valve without removing the old valve. The new valve pushes the damaged valve aside and takes over its function, restoring normal blood flow.
The procedure is performed through a small incision, most commonly via the femoral artery in the groin.
Who Needs TAVR?
TAVR is recommended for patients with:
- Severe aortic valve stenosis
- Symptoms such as breathlessness, chest pain, dizziness, or fainting
- High or intermediate surgical risk
- Elderly patients or those with multiple medical conditions
- Patients unsuitable for open-heart surgery
Symptoms of Aortic Valve Stenosis
- Shortness of breath on exertion
- Chest pain (angina)
- Fatigue and weakness
- Dizziness or fainting episodes
- Heart failure symptoms
Early diagnosis and timely intervention can significantly improve outcomes.
Pre-Procedure Evaluation
Before recommending TAVR, Dr. Nishant Tyagi performs a detailed cardiac evaluation including:
- Echocardiography (2D/3D)
- CT angiography
- Coronary angiography
- ECG and blood investigations
- Comprehensive risk assessment
This ensures patient safety and optimal procedural planning.
How Is TAVR Performed?
- A catheter is guided through a blood vessel to the heart
- The new valve is positioned within the diseased aortic valve
- The valve is expanded and starts functioning immediately
- No open-heart surgery or chest incision required
Benefits of TAVR
- Minimally invasive procedure
- Faster recovery and shorter hospital stay
- Reduced pain and complications
- Improved heart function and quality of life
- Suitable for high-risk and elderly patients
Recovery After TAVR
Patients usually:
- Start walking within 24 hours
- Experience significant symptom improvement
- Require short hospital stays
- Need regular follow-up and medication management
Consult Dr. Nishant Tyagi today for expert evaluation and advanced cardiac protection.