Which Heart Issues Can A TAVR Procedure Help With?

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI), also known as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), is a minimally invasive procedure used primarily for the treatment of aortic valve stenosis. Aortic valve stenosis is a condition where the aortic valve becomes narrowed, reducing blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body.

TAVI/TAVR procedures are specifically used for the following heart conditions:

1. Severe Aortic Stenosis: TAVI is most commonly performed for the treatment of severe aortic stenosis in patients who are deemed high-risk or inoperable for traditional open-heart surgery. It is an alternative option to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) for eligible patients.

2. High-Risk or Inoperable Patients: TAVI/TAVR procedures are particularly suitable for patients who are considered high-risk or not suitable candidates for traditional open-heart surgery due to various factors such as advanced age, frailty, multiple comorbidities, or other medical conditions that increase the surgical risks.

3. Valve Degeneration or Calcification: TAVI can be used when the aortic valve becomes degenerated or calcified, leading to narrowing and obstruction of blood flow. This can occur due to age-related degeneration or conditions like bicuspid aortic valve.

It’s important to note that TAVI/TAVR procedures are continually evolving, and their usage criteria may expand in the future. As medical advancements progress, the eligibility for TAVI may be broadened to include a wider range of patients with different heart conditions. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized information and advice regarding specific heart conditions and treatment options.