Transcatheter aortic valve replacement, or TAVR, is an innovative, minimally invasive procedure for replacing the aortic valve without open-heart surgery. If you have severe aortic stenosis — a narrowing of the aortic valve that blocks blood flow from your heart to your body — your heart faces excessive strain. Over time, this can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, heart failure and even life-threatening complications.

With TAVR, your heart care team can implant a new valve using a thin, flexible catheter. The catheter is typically inserted through a small incision in your leg artery and carefully guided to your heart. Once positioned, the new valve is expanded within the old valve, immediately enhancing the efficiency of your heart's blood-pumping ability.

TAVR at Tanner

Tanner Heart Care provides transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) — an advanced, minimally invasive option for severe aortic stenosis. This procedure offers significant benefits for patients who may not be suitable candidates for open-heart surgery. Experience a quicker recovery, reduced risks and more time to enjoy life.

Watch the video at below to learn more.

Why is TAVR done?

You might be considered for TAVR if your aortic valve is severely narrowed and you are experiencing symptoms such as:

TAVR may be recommended as an alternative to traditional aortic valve replacement through open-heart surgery. It is particularly beneficial for older adults, those with additional serious health concerns, or individuals whose bodies may not recover well from major surgery. Recently, TAVR has also been successfully performed in patients at intermediate or low surgical risk, depending on their overall health and heart anatomy.

The primary objectives of TAVR are to alleviate your symptoms, enhance your quality of life, and enable you to resume activities you enjoy with fewer limitations.

While TAVR is less invasive than surgery, it remains a significant heart procedure with associated risks. Your heart team will discuss your specific risk factors and strategies to minimize them. They will also address your questions, ensuring you are well-informed and confident in your decision.

The TAVR team at Tanner Heart Care comprises (l-r) Joseph Massey, NP, structural heart coordinator; Hakob Davtyan, MD, cardiothoracic surgeon; Shazib Khawaja, MD, interventional cardiologist; Isida Byku, MD, structural heart proctor, Emory Healthcare; Chris Arant, MD, interventional cardiologist and Omar Lattouf, MD, cardiothoracic surgeon.

What you can expect…

Before the procedure

Prior to TAVR, you will undergo several diagnostic tests — including an echocardiogram, CT scans and possibly heart catheterization — to assess the severity of your valve condition and plan the procedure. These tests also help your care team determine the safest route to access your heart. You will meet with the heart team, which includes specialists such as interventional cardiologists and surgeons, to discuss your symptoms, test results and preferences.

During the procedure

TAVR usually takes two to three hours. You will receive either general anesthesia, which fully sedates you or conscious sedation, which keeps you relaxed and comfortable. Your doctor will make a small incision, most often in your leg and guide the catheter to your heart using live imaging. The new valve is positioned within your old valve and expanded. Your old valve leaflets are displaced, and the new valve begins working immediately. 

After the procedure

You may be able to get out of bed and walk within hours after the procedure or by the next morning. Most patients are discharged from the hospital within one to three days. Before you leave, your care team will evaluate the new valve, review your medication regimen, and explain how to care for your incision. You will attend follow-up visits to ensure your new valve is functioning optimally. You may also be referred to a cardiac rehabilitation program, which can help you safely regain strength and endurance. 

Results you can expect

Many patients experience rapid symptom improvement — sometimes within days. You may notice enhanced breathing, increased energy and the ability to engage in activities without fatigue or dizziness. These changes can make everyday tasks, such as walking, gardening or playing with grandchildren, more enjoyable and less taxing.

Research indicates that TAVR delivers outcomes comparable to or better than those of surgical valve replacement in many patients, especially when performed in suitable candidates. Your doctor will discuss the longevity of your new valve and any potential future procedures with you.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Frequently Asked Questions 

What is TAVR?
TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure to replace a narrowed aortic valve that fails to open properly

Who is a candidate for TAVR? 
Candidates typically include those with severe aortic stenosis, particularly if they are not ideal candidates for open-heart surgery.

What are the risks of TAVR?
While less invasive, TAVR has risks, including bleeding, infection or valve complications. Your heart team will discuss these with you. 

How long is the recovery period after TAVR?
Recovery is typically swift, with many patients resuming normal activities within days.

How does TAVR compare to surgical valve replacement? 
TAVR offers comparable or better outcomes for certain patients, with the benefits of being less invasive.