Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)

Fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest pain or tightness are the top three signs you may need a transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The cardiology experts at Florida Heart, Vein and Vascular Institute have helped many patients return to a healthier life with a minimally invasive TAVR procedure. To learn more, call the office in Zephyrhills, Lakeland, Plant City, Wesley Chapel or Riverview, Florida, or request an appointment online today to get help for troublesome heart symptoms.

What is a transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR)?

A transcatheter aortic valve replacement, or TAVR, treats a heart condition called aortic valve stenosis. During the minimally invasive interventional cardiology procedure, your provider removes the damaged valve and replaces it with a new one.

The aortic valve opens to let blood flow from your heart into the aorta, the large artery carrying oxygen-rich blood to your body. Then, the valve closes to prevent blood from flowing back into your heart.

Aortic valve stenosis occurs when the valve becomes thick and stiff, narrowing the opening and decreasing the amount of blood flowing out of your heart.

When this condition isn’t treated, your heart works harder to force more blood into the aorta. The extra effort takes a toll on your heart muscles, ultimately causing heart failure.

What should I expect during a TAVR?

Many patients have TAVR as an outpatient procedure using a local anesthetic and sedation to help them relax.

Your provider makes a tiny cut in your groin or chest and inserts a catheter (long, narrow tube) into the blood vessel. They use specialized real-time imaging to thread the catheter into your heart.

After placing the catheter near the aortic valve, your provider uses the catheter to guide instruments into your heart, using them to remove and replace the valve. 

Some valves automatically expand to become permanently implanted in place. Others are pressed into place by inflating a balloon from the catheter.

What is recovery like after a transcatheter aortic valve replacement?

As long as you don’t have any complications after the transcatheter aortic valve replacement, you can go home the same day. Before you leave, the team explains how to care for the small wound and watch for problems like an infection.

Your Florida Heart, Vein and Vascular Institute provider prescribes blood thinners (anticoagulants) to prevent blood clots. You may also need to take antibiotics to prevent a bacterial infection in the new valve.

After taking it easy for a time, most patients return to their usual activities within two weeks. You’ll have regular follow-up appointments, and your provider recommends a healthy diet and exercise regimen to support your heart health.

Call the nearest Florida Heart, Vein and Vascular Institute office or request a TAVR consultation online today.