What to Expect During the TAVR Procedure
With transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), you don’t have to have your chest opened. This less invasive option can result in a shorter hospital stay and faster recovery.
As you prepare for your TAVR, you likely have some questions. Your TAVR Doctor will walk you through the details of the procedure but it is also helpful to understand what to expect.
On the Day of Your Procedure
Your TAVR Doctor will perform the procedure at a hospital. Depending on your health, they will determine what type of anesthesia is best for you. You may be fully asleep, or you may be awake but given medication to help you relax and block pain. Your heart will continue to beat during the procedure. This is quite different than open heart surgery, in which you will be placed on a heart and lung blood machine.
The average TAVR procedure is 1 hour compared to open heart surgery which lasts approximately 4 hours.
Your TAVR Procedure
TAVR can be done in multiple ways, but the most common approach involves a small incision made in the groin. This is called the transfemoral approach. Other approaches for TAVR may be considered by your doctor depending on your individual anatomy.
If you have questions about your TAVR procedure approach, ask your doctor.
TAVR Procedure: Step-by-Step
TAVR Procedure: Step-by-Step
Step 1 of 4
A small incision is made in your groin. This is where your TAVR Doctor will insert a short, hollow tube called a sheath into your femoral artery.
The new valve is then placed on the delivery system (or tube) with a balloon on the end. The new valve is compressed on the balloon to make it small enough to fit through the sheath.
The delivery system carrying the valve is pushed up to your aortic valve. Once it reaches your diseased valve, the balloon is inflated, expanding the new valve into place. The new valve pushes aside the leaflets of your diseased valve. Your existing valve holds the new valve in place. Once your new valve is in place, the balloon is deflated and removed.
The new valve will open and close as a normal aortic valve should. Your TAVR Doctor will make sure your new valve is working properly before closing the incision in your groin.
This less invasive treatment can mean a faster return to your second act. With TAVR, you can feel relief from symptoms. Talk to your doctor about how long your recovery may take.
As with any medical procedure, there is a possibility of risks. The most serious risks of TAVR include death, stroke, serious damage to the arteries, or serious bleeding.
After the TAVR Procedure
With TAVR, you don’t need to have your chest opened. TAVR has a shorter procedure time and hospital stay compared to surgery. Learn what you can expect during your recovery.
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