Aortic Stenosis

Up to 1.5 million people in the United States suffer from aortic stenosis, a progressive disease that affects the aortic valve of the heart. Approximately 250,000 of these patients suffer from severe symptomatic aortic stenosis, often developing debilitating symptoms that can restrict normal day-to-day activities, such as walking short distances or climbing stairs. Patients can often benefit from surgery to replace their ailing valve, but only about two-thirds of eligible patients undergo the procedure each year. 

Symptoms

Patients with severe aortic stenosis may experience debilitating symptoms, such as:

• Severe shortness of breath leading to gasping – even at rest
• Chest pain or tightness
• Fainting
• Extreme fatigue
• Lightheadedness/dizziness
• Difficulty exercising
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

At PIH Health, we offer Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), a minimally invasive procedure for patients with severe aortic stenosis who are not suitable for traditional surgery.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) at PIH Health

A Minimally Invasive Solution for Aortic Stenosis

At PIH Health, we offer Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)—a cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedure designed to treat aortic stenosis, a condition that affects the aortic valve of the heart.

Our experienced team of cardiologists and heart surgeons provides TAVR as a life-saving alternative to traditional open-heart surgery, allowing patients who are too high-risk for surgery to receive effective treatment and improve their quality of life.

What Is TAVR?

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) is a minimally invasive procedure that replaces a damaged or narrowed aortic valve without the need for open-heart surgery.

Instead of removing the old valve, the new bioprosthetic valve is delivered via a catheter, expanding within the existing valve and restoring proper blood flow.

This innovative approach provides a safe and effective treatment option, especially for patients considered at high or intermediate risk for traditional surgery due to age or other health conditions.

The TAVR Procedure: What to Expect

TAVR is performed using a catheter-based technique, making it far less invasive than traditional valve replacement surgery. Here’s what to expect during the procedure:

• Local Anesthesia and Sedation: You will receive local anesthesia and sedation, though in most cases, general anesthesia is used.
• Catheter Insertion: A small incision is made, usually in the femoral artery (in the groin). A catheter containing the new valve is carefully threaded through the artery and guided to the heart.
• Valve Placement: Once the catheter reaches the damaged aortic valve, the new valve is expanded, pushing aside the old valve. The new valve immediately takes over the job of controlling blood flow.
• Recovery: After the procedure, patients are closely monitored for a short period. Most patients experience a faster recovery compared to open-heart surgery and can return to daily activities within a few days.

Why Choose TAVR?

For patients with severe aortic stenosis, especially those who are not ideal candidates for open-heart surgery due to age or underlying health issues, TAVR offers several significant benefits:

• Minimally invasive, without the need for a large chest incision or heart-lung machine
• Faster recovery and shorter hospital stays
• Lower risk compared to traditional open-heart surgery
• Improved quality of life with symptom relief

Who Is a Candidate for TAVR?

TAVR is generally recommended for patients with severe aortic stenosis who are considered at high or intermediate risk for traditional valve replacement surgery. This includes:

• Older adults who may face higher risks with open-heart surgery
• Patients with other medical conditions that make traditional surgery more dangerous
• Individuals experiencing severe symptoms of aortic stenosis that impact daily life

At PIH Health, cardiologists thoroughly evaluate each patient’s condition and overall health to determine if TAVR is the right option.

Get Started with TAVR at PIH Health

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with aortic stenosis, it’s important to seek expert care. Contact PIH Health to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists.

Our team will help determine if TAVR is the right treatment option and guide you through every step of the process.