For patients who have been diagnosed with severe aortic valve stenosis
and who are high-risk or too sick for open-heart surgery, transcatheter
aortic valve replacement (TAVR) may be an alternative to receive a new
heart valve without undergoing open-heart surgery.
As a result of a pivotal new Partner Trial, the FDA has approved the use
of the Edwards' Transcatheter Heart Valve, which utilizes a minimally
invasive procedure to implant a new valve using a method very similar
to the implantation of a stent. Therefore, patients whose conditions were
previously thought to be untreatable can now receive a new valve without
open heart surgery.
What Is Aortic Stenosis?
Aortic stenosis is when a valve is too narrow to pump blood effectively, due to calcium
buildup, high cholesterol or a birth defect. Aortic regurgitation is when
a valve cannot close fully, causing blood to leak backward through the
valve. Both problems cause your heart to work harder, which can weaken
heart muscle. Severe aortic stenosis is usually caused by calcium buildup
over time. Without treatment, the heart can quickly deteriorate, increasing
the risk for
heart failure.
How Does TAVR Work?
During the procedure, a catheter is inserted either into the patients’
groin, or directly into the lower part of their heart muscle, and a balloon-expandable
aortic valve is positioned and deployed within their existing valve, helping
expand the passageway. After the procedure, which requires a short hospital
stay, most patients feel the immediate benefit of improved blood flow.
TAVR Candidates
Your cardiologist is the first person to tell you whether you or a loved
one may be a candidate for the transcatheter aortic valve replacement.
The Lundquist Lurie Cardiovascular Institute has established a valve service
where high risk patients can be evaluated by a team of cardiologists and
cardiothoracic and vascular surgeons. However, the process starts right
in your own doctor's office, where many of the preliminary test are
performed. Your doctor will work closely with Torrance Memorial's
TAVR team to ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatment. Your
doctor will remain involved every step of the way.
Is TAVR Right For You?
- For more information about the TAVR procedure, call 310-517-4790
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Need a physician referral? Call our physician referral line 310-517-4700
or view our online
physician directory.
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For professionals,
click here to learn more about TAVR procedure. For additional information call 310-517-4790.