Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR): A Revolutionary Advancement in Cardiac Care One of the most remarkable medical breakthroughs in interventional cardiology over the past decade is Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR). This advanced, minimally invasive procedure offers an effective alternative to traditional open-heart surgery for patients with aortic valve stenosis.
TAVR involves replacing the diseased aortic valve with a biological valve using a catheter-based approach, significantly improving patient survival rates and recovery times.
In India, more than 4 lakh patients have undergone TAVR, benefiting from its reduced complications and excellent long-term results. Clinical tests spanning up to ten years have demonstrated the durability and effectiveness of this procedure.
​Types of Transcatheter Aortic Valves
There are two primary types of transcatheter aortic valves used in TAVR:
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Balloon-expandable valves – The Sapien valve, composed of bovine pericardium and mounted on a metallic stent, is deployed using a balloon catheter.
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Self-expandable valves – The Corevalve, made from porcine pericardium and placed within a nitinol frame, expands naturally once positioned.
Procedure and Recovery
TAVR is typically performed under conscious sedation and takes approximately one hour. Unlike traditional aortic valve replacement, which requires open-heart surgery, TAVR is minimally invasive and allows for a quicker recovery. Most patients are mobilized within 24 hours and discharged within 4–5 days, ensuring minimal disruption to their daily lives.
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Who is a Suitable Candidate for TAVR?
TAVR is recommended for patients at moderate to high risk for complications associated with conventional surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). It is particularly beneficial for:
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Elderly patients or those with multiple comorbidities who are not suitable candidates for open-heart surgery.
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Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as lung or kidney disease, which increase surgical risks.
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Patients with a previously implanted tissue valve that is no longer functioning effectively.
A team of cardiologists and cardiac surgeons carefully evaluates each patient to determine whether TAVR is the best treatment option.
Why is TAVR Performed?
TAVR is primarily used to treat aortic valve stenosis, a condition where the aortic valve narrows, restricting blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. Common symptoms of aortic stenosis include:
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Chest pain
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Shortness of breath
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Dizziness or fainting
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Fatigue and swelling in the legs
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Increased risk of heart failure and sudden cardiac death
By replacing the diseased valve, TAVR restores normal blood flow, alleviates symptoms, and enhances the patient’s quality of life.
Who Benefits the Most from TAVR?
Patients with symptomatic aortic stenosis, particularly those at moderate to high risk for surgical complications, stand to benefit the most from TAVR. The procedure offers a life-saving alternative for individuals unable to undergo conventional surgery due to age or existing health conditions.
Additionally, if a previously implanted tissue valve has deteriorated, TAVR can serve as an effective solution to restore proper valve function.
Final Thoughts
TAVR represents a transformative advancement in cardiac care, offering patients a safer and faster recovery alternative to traditional surgery. With its proven effectiveness and excellent long-term outcomes, TAVR is revolutionizing the treatment of aortic stenosis in India.
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​For expert consultation on heart valve diseases and cutting-edge treatments like TAVR, consult Dr. Mahadev Swamy at Mahadev Heart Care, Bangalore.