TAVR
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement
A revolutionary minimally invasive procedure to replace a diseased aortic valve without open-heart surgery, restoring normal blood flow and improving quality of life.
What is TAVR?
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), also known as TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation), is a groundbreaking minimally invasive procedure used to treat aortic stenosis — a condition where the aortic valve becomes narrowed and cannot open fully, restricting blood flow from the heart to the body.
Unlike traditional open-heart surgery, TAVR allows a new valve to be implanted through a small incision, typically in the leg (transfemoral approach), without the need for a large chest incision or heart-lung bypass machine. This results in faster recovery, less pain, and shorter hospital stays.
Dr. Bleszynski is an experienced TAVR specialist, bringing this life-changing technology to patients in Las Vegas.
Understanding Aortic Stenosis
Aortic stenosis is one of the most common and serious heart valve conditions. The aortic valve controls blood flow from your heart to the rest of your body. When it becomes narrowed:
- •Your heart must work harder to pump blood through the narrowed opening
- •Over time, this extra work weakens the heart muscle
- •Without treatment, severe aortic stenosis can be life-threatening
Symptoms of Aortic Stenosis:
Who is a Candidate for TAVR?
TAVR was initially developed for patients who were too high-risk for traditional surgery. Today, it's approved for patients at all risk levels:
High-Risk Patients
Patients with severe aortic stenosis who have significant medical conditions making open-heart surgery too risky.
Intermediate-Risk Patients
Patients who may face moderate surgical risks and prefer a less invasive approach.
Low-Risk Patients
Younger, healthier patients who are candidates for either TAVR or surgery may choose TAVR for faster recovery.
Inoperable Patients
Patients who cannot undergo surgery at all may find TAVR offers a life-extending option.
The TAVR Procedure
Pre-Procedure Evaluation
Comprehensive testing including CT scans, echocardiogram, and cardiac catheterization to assess your anatomy and plan the procedure.
Anesthesia
TAVR is typically performed under general anesthesia or conscious sedation, depending on patient factors and preference.
Valve Delivery
A catheter carrying the new valve is inserted through a small incision in the groin and guided to the heart. The new valve is positioned inside the diseased valve.
Valve Deployment
The new valve is expanded (either self-expanding or balloon-expanded), pushing the old valve leaflets aside. The new valve immediately begins working.
Confirmation
Imaging confirms the valve is working properly. The catheter is removed and the incision is closed.
Benefits of TAVR
Minimally Invasive
No chest incision or heart-lung machine
Faster Recovery
Days instead of weeks or months
Shorter Hospital Stay
Often just 1-3 days
Less Pain
Small incision means less discomfort
Immediate Results
New valve works right away
High Success Rates
Proven outcomes in clinical trials
Frequently Asked Questions About TAVR
What is TAVR and how does it work?
TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement) is a minimally invasive procedure to replace a diseased aortic valve without open-heart surgery. A new valve is delivered through a catheter inserted in the leg and positioned inside the old valve, where it immediately begins working to restore normal blood flow.
Am I a candidate for TAVR vs. open-heart surgery?
TAVR is FDA-approved for patients at all risk levels with severe aortic stenosis. Candidacy depends on your anatomy, overall health, and preferences. A heart team evaluation including CT imaging will determine the best approach for you. Many patients now choose TAVR for its faster recovery.
What is the recovery time for TAVR?
Most patients go home within 1-3 days after TAVR. You can typically return to normal daily activities within 1-2 weeks, with full recovery in 2-4 weeks. This is significantly faster than the 6-8 week recovery typical of open-heart surgery.
What are the risks of TAVR?
Like any heart procedure, TAVR carries some risks including bleeding, stroke, need for a pacemaker, and vascular complications. However, clinical trials show TAVR has comparable or better outcomes than surgery for many patients, with lower rates of bleeding, kidney injury, and atrial fibrillation.
How long does a TAVR valve last?
Clinical data shows TAVR valves remain durable at 5+ years with excellent function. Long-term studies continue to show strong performance, and valve technology continues to improve. Your cardiologist will monitor your valve with regular echocardiograms.
Structural Heart Specialist
Quick Facts
- Procedure Time
- 1-2 hours
- Anesthesia
- General or conscious sedation
- Hospital Stay
- 1-3 days
- Full Recovery
- 2-4 weeks
Is TAVR Right for You?
Dr. Bleszynski and the structural heart team can evaluate whether TAVR is the best option for your aortic stenosis.
Schedule Consultation(702) 805-5678