Patient Education Series | Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement | Chirag D. Patel, MD, FACC, FSCAI
Chirag D. Patel, MD, FACC, FSCAI, is an interventional cardiologist at South Orange Avenue Medical Associates in South Orange and Newark, New Jersey. In addition to his clinical responsibilities, he is a managing partner for the practice. He maintains hospital privileges at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and RWJUH New... more
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR): A Game-Changer in Heart Treatment
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) has revolutionized care for individuals with severe aortic stenosis, a condition that narrows the aortic valve opening and restricts blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. As a less invasive alternative to open-heart surgery, TAVR offers renewed hope for patients who are considered too high-risk for traditional surgical options.
What is Aortic Stenosis?
Aortic stenosis happens when the aortic valve, which controls blood flow from the heart's left ventricle to the aorta, becomes narrowed or blocked. This condition can cause chest pain, difficulty breathing, fatigue, and fainting, all of which interfere with the heart's ability to circulate blood efficiently.
How the TAVR Procedure Works
In a TAVR procedure, doctors deliver a collapsible valve to the heart through a catheter that is inserted via a small incision, usually in the groin or chest. Once positioned, the new valve is expanded, pushing the damaged valve aside and restoring proper blood flow. Unlike traditional valve replacement, which involves open-heart surgery and requires a heart-lung machine, TAVR allows the heart to keep beating during the procedure, reducing trauma and speeding up recovery.
Choosing the Right Candidates
Not every patient is a candidate for TAVR. To ensure the best outcomes, doctors carefully evaluate each patient, taking into account factors such as age, medical history, heart health, and other health conditions. While TAVR is most often recommended for elderly patients or those at high surgical risk, it may also be an option for some individuals at lower or moderate risk.
Why TAVR is Beneficial
Compared to traditional open-heart surgery, TAVR has several key advantages: it carries fewer procedural risks, requires a shorter hospital stay, speeds up recovery, and enhances quality of life. For many, it offers a less invasive alternative without sacrificing long-term results.
Recovery After TAVR
Most patients who undergo TAVR recover quickly and are discharged within a few days. Although some may need additional monitoring or rehabilitation, many return to their usual activities soon after the procedure. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to ensure proper valve function and address any issues.
The Future of TAVR
Ongoing advances in TAVR technology are continually improving outcomes for patients with aortic stenosis. Researchers are working to expand eligibility criteria, refine procedural techniques, and further enhance long-term success rates. There's also growing interest in applying TAVR to other heart valve conditions, potentially broadening its use in interventional cardiology.
https://www.findatopdoc.com/doctor/84392371-Chirag-Patel-Cardiologist
