Independence Health System offers an advanced treatment for aortic valve
stenosis known as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR). This
minimally invasive procedure is a critical part of our comprehensive cardiovascular
care, as it allows us to replace damaged aortic valves without the need
for open-heart surgery. It's especially beneficial for patients who are
currently at intermediate or high risk for traditional open-heart surgery.
What is Aortic Stenosis?
Aortic Stenosis is a common heart valve problem affecting millions of people
in the United States. It is estimated that up to 12.4% of people over
age 75 have aortic stenosis and it is most common in men.
Over time, the aortic valve becomes stiff, reducing the ability to fully
open and close. This results in the heart working harder to push blood
through the aortic valve to the body. Eventually, this weakens the heart
and increases the risk of heart failure because the heart cannot supply
enough blood to the body.
Aortic stenosis can be caused by age, calcium build-up, radiation therapy,
infection of the heart, birth defects, and rheumatic fever.
As the heart works harder and less oxygen-rich blood flows through the
body, symptoms may result. Symptoms can include, chest pain, rapid/fluttering
heartbeat, trouble breathing or feeling short of breath, feeling dizzy
or light-headed, fainting, difficulty walking short distances, swollen
ankles or feet, not doing activities you used to enjoy, difficulty sleeping
or the need to sleep sitting up. Because these symptoms are common to
other health problems, it’s important to discuss them with your doctor.
How is Aortic Stenosis Treated With a Transcatheter Heart Valve Replacement (TAVR)?
For decades, the previous standard of care has been open-heart surgery
for aortic valve replacement. TAVR offers an alternative method for many
patients. During this minimally invasive approach, the valve is typically
implanted through the femoral artery, although other access points may
be used. TAVR can be an effective option to improve the quality of life
in patients who otherwise have limited choices for the repair of their
aortic valve.
Without aortic valve replacement, severe aortic stenosis is a life-threatening
disease and carries a poor short-term prognosis, with a survival rate
as low as 50% within two years of symptom development.
Prior to treatment, patients are evaluated within the Structural Heart
Program by a multidisciplinary team that includes cardiothoracic surgeons,
interventional cardiologists, cardiovascular imagers, cardiac anesthesiologists
and nurse navigators. The team reviews cardiac imaging, coronary angiography
and CT scans along with clinical history to make the best clinical decision
for each patient.
A TAVR typically takes less than an hour to complete, and patients can
expect to spend less time in the hospital after TAVR compared to traditional
surgical valve replacement.
How Is TAVR Performed?
During the TAVR procedure, a catheter is inserted through a small incision
in the leg or chest to guide the new valve toward the heart. Once in place,
the new valve begins to function immediately, improving blood flow and
circulation. This procedure can be used to relieve a variety of symptoms
caused by severe aortic stenosis or other chronic cardiac conditions.
Patients who undergo this procedure should expect to notice relief from
the following symptoms:
Shortness of breath
Fatigue and chronic low energy
Lightheadedness and dizziness
Fainting
Chest pain
Older individuals, smokers, and those with high blood pressure and/or cholesterol
are at increased risk of developing aortic stenosis. If you’ve been
noticing any of the symptoms listed above, we recommend reaching out to
for diagnostic testing.
In addition to a physical exam, severe aortic stenosis can be diagnosed
in several ways, the most common being an echocardiogram and/or cardiac
catheterization (angiography). As part of your evaluation for valve replacement,
your provider may also suggest that you receive an electrocardiogram (EKG),
chest X-ray, or CT scan.
Schedule a Consultation at Independence Health System
For those seeking cardiovascular care, Independence Health System provides
comprehensive services to promote a heart-healthy life. To determine if
TAVR is right for you, schedule a consultation.
Independence Health System is committed to providing advanced treatments
to help patients live healthier lives. Contact our cardiology team at
866-620-6761 to request care.
