TAVR

Look to VCH Health for a minimally invasive approach to treating aortic valve stenosis.

What’s Aortic Valve Stenosis?

Aortic valve stenosis means the aortic valve of the heart is narrowed and isn’t opening normally, making it harder for the heart to pump. If you have aortic valve stenosis, symptoms like chest pain, tiredness and shortness of breath may make it hard to do your daily activities.

What’s TAVR?

TAVR stands for transcatheter aortic valve replacement. This procedure replaces the aortic valve of the heart without removing the old, damaged valve. It can improve symptoms, overall health and quality of life. TAVR uses less invasive techniques than traditional aortic valve replacement surgery. 

Is TAVR Right for Me?

If you have aortic valve stenosis, talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of TAVR. Your doctor may recommend the procedure if you cannot have traditional open heart surgery because the risk of complications is too high. You’ll receive certain tests and examinations to make sure TAVR is safe for you.

What to Expect 

Ask your care team how to prepare. Count on the experienced and compassionate staff at The Louise Sands Olmstead Cardiac Catheterization Lab to take steps to keep you safe and as comfortable as possible throughout your experience. You'll benefit from light sedation instead of general anesthesia for the TAVR procedure.

During the procedure, your doctor will make a tiny incision in the leg, chest or other part of the body. Your doctor will place a catheter (long, thin tube) in the incision and use imaging technology to guide a collapsible replacement valve into place. The replacement valve is opened and started working immediately. Then your doctor removes the catheter.

After TAVR

Trust your providers at VHC Health to monitor you closely in the hospital and help you recover as quickly as possible with any needed follow-up care. Most patients are able to go home after one day in the hospital.