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Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), also known as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI), is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat aortic valve stenosis, a condition characterized by the narrowing of the aortic valve opening. This innovative technique allows for the replacement of the damaged valve without the need for open-heart surgery.

Procedure

TAVR is performed by a team of interventional cardiologists and cardiac surgeons in a specialized cardiac catheterization laboratory. The procedure involves the insertion of a catheter, typically through the femoral artery in the groin, which is guided towards the heart. Once in position, a collapsible artificial valve is delivered through the catheter and positioned within the diseased aortic valve. The new valve is then expanded, pushing aside the old valve leaflets and effectively taking over the function of the native valve.

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Benefits

TAVR offers several advantages over traditional open-heart surgery for eligible patients. These benefits include:

• Minimally Invasive: TAVR is a less invasive procedure compared to open-heart surgery, resulting in smaller incisions, reduced pain, and faster recovery times.
• Reduced Risk: The risk of complications, such as infection and bleeding, is generally lower with TAVR compared to open-heart surgery.
• Shorter Hospital Stay: Patients undergoing TAVR typically have shorter hospital stays, allowing them to return to their normal activities sooner.
• Improved Quality of Life: TAVR has been shown to significantly improve symptoms associated with aortic valve stenosis, such as shortness of breath and fatigue, leading to an enhanced quality of life.

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Candidates

TAVR is typically recommended for patients who are considered high-risk or inoperable for traditional open-heart surgery due to factors such as advanced age, frailty, or underlying health conditions. However, TAVR is also being increasingly used in intermediate-risk patients as an alternative to surgery.

Risks

While TAVR is generally safe and effective, like any medical procedure, it carries some risks. Potential complications of TAVR may include:

• Bleeding at the insertion site
• Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA)
• Heart rhythm abnormalities
• Valve leakage or displacement
• Damage to blood vessels or the heart

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It is important for patients to discuss the potential risks and benefits of TAVR with their healthcare provider to determine if this procedure is the most suitable option for their specific condition.

Keywords: aortic, procedure, surgery, patients, transcatheter, replacement, invasive, typically, benefits