Victor Hospital Takes a Major Leap in Cardiology Procedures: The Future of Heart Care with TAVR

Are you dealing with heart valve issues or considering heart surgery? You might be interested in a groundbreaking, less-invasive procedure that is changing the way heart conditions are treated—TAVR (also known as TAVI or Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement/Implantation).

What Is TAVR (TAVI)?

TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure designed to help patients with aortic valve problems, particularly those suffering from aortic stenosis. Aortic stenosis occurs when the valve in your heart becomes narrowed and doesn’t open properly, leading to restricted blood flow.

Here’s the amazing part: instead of removing your damaged valve, the TAVR procedure simply inserts a new valve inside the old one. Think of it like placing a stent in an artery. A small catheter is used to guide a collapsible replacement valve directly to the heart, and once it’s in position, it expands and starts doing the job of regulating blood flow—giving your heart a new lease on life.

Who Can Benefit from TAVR?

TAVR is primarily designed for patients with severe aortic stenosis who cannot safely undergo traditional open-heart surgery. This includes individuals who are older, frail, or have other health conditions that make surgery too risky.

But here’s the exciting news: recent studies show that TAVR is also effective for low- and intermediate-risk patients—meaning more people can now benefit from this procedure!

Before the procedure, your doctor will recommend several tests, including:

• Echocardiogram
• Doppler Ultrasound of the Carotid Artery
• CT scans of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis
• Angiogram of the heart
• Pulmonary function tests
• And possibly some blood tests and other examinations

When Is TAVR a Better Choice?

TAVR shines in situations where traditional surgery might be too risky, offering a less invasive approach with a faster recovery time. For patients who are high-risk or inoperable for surgery, TAVR provides an excellent alternative with a significantly improved quality of life.

However, for those who are low-risk and can handle traditional surgery, open-heart surgery might still be the preferred option.

Choosing between TAVR and traditional surgery is a decision made by a heart team, who will assess your overall health, heart condition, and life expectancy.

Why Is TAVR a Game-Changer?

Here’s why more patients are choosing TAVR:

• Less Invasive: Unlike open-heart surgery, which requires cutting open the chest, TAVR is performed through a small incision, typically in the groin. No chest scars, no long recovery times.
• Quick Recovery: Patients can usually return to their daily routines much faster than with traditional surgery.
• Immediate Relief: TAVR provides immediate improvement in symptoms like shortness of breath and chest pain, often within hours.
• Improved Quality of Life: Patients who have undergone TAVR often report feeling much better, with enhanced heart function and reduced anxiety.

How Is the TAVR Procedure Done?

The TAVR procedure is guided by imaging technology (like ultrasound and X-rays) to ensure precision. Here’s how it works:

1. A small catheter is inserted into an artery, usually in the groin.
2. The collapsed new valve is carefully guided to your heart.
3. The valve is expanded using a balloon or a self-expanding device, and it fits perfectly inside the damaged valve.
4. Once the new valve is in place, the catheter is removed, and the artery is sealed.

The procedure usually takes about 1-2 hours, and the recovery time is typically shorter than open-heart surgery. Many patients feel the difference almost immediately!

What Are the Benefits of TAVR?

• Minimally Invasive: No need for open-heart surgery or large incisions.
• Faster Recovery: Get back to doing the things you love sooner.
• Reduced Risk: Especially for high-risk patients who might not be suitable for traditional surgery.
• Better Quality of Life: TAVR helps improve heart function and can significantly enhance your day-to-day living.

At Victor Hospital, we are proud to offer the latest in heart care with TAVR, ensuring our patients receive the best and most innovative treatments available. If you’re living with aortic stenosis or heart valve issues, speak with your doctor to see if TAVR might be the right option for you!