About This Treatment
TAVR is the first FDA-approved transcatheter aortic valve replacement therapy. TAVR replaces a damaged aortic valve without open-heart surgery.
It provides an important treatment option for patients who cannot have open-heart surgery. It also eliminates the need for cardiopulmonary bypass, which helps circulate blood during an open-heart surgery.
Is Franciscan Health The Best For TAVR In Indiana?
Our surgeons perform TAVR at the Franciscan Health Heart Valve Center in Indianapolis and Crown Point. Our Heart Valve Center was the first multidisciplinary center in Indiana dedicated to heart valve disease. The team offers a depth of experience working together to treat aortic stenosis and other complex valve disorders.
What Is The TAVR Procedure?
TAVR allows surgeons to replace the aortic valve with a new artificial one, all while your heart continues to beat. It is a significantly less invasive treatment option than traditional open-heart surgery.
What does TAVR help with?
TAVR is a innovative procedure which can:
- Help improve blood flow.
- Reduce symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue.
- Support a faster recovery compared to open-heart surgery.
What Happens During Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)?
- You receive general anesthesia.
- Your surgeon accesses the heart through a blood vessel in the leg or a small incision in your chest.
- Your surgeon places a collapsible aortic heart valve into the body.
Your cardiovascular specialist will make sure you are aware of any potential risks and complications before your procedure. They should also walk you through any aftercare steps you might need to take.
Is TAVR Right For Me?
TAVR is not right for everyone, it can be a good option if you have severe aortic stenosis, are over the age of 65 and otherwise have limited choices for repairing your aortic valve.
For some patients, surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) may be a better option. Your specialist will look at your specific situation and walk you through the options that make sense for you.
How To Get Care
Talk to your cardiologist to see if this procedure is right for you based on your risks.
If you think you may be a candidate for this procedure, but do not have a cardiologist, schedule time with your primary care provider to discuss. You primary care provider can evaluate you and make a referral to a heart specialist.
