Home > Videos > Cardiology > TAVR क्या है? | What is Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)?

TAVR क्या है? | What is Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)? | Dr Priya Palimkar, Sahyadri

Introduction

Dr. Priya Palimkar, an Interventional Cardiologist and Head of the Cardiology Department at Sahyadri Hospital, Nagar Road, discusses the Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) procedure. This procedure is used for treating aortic valve stenosis, a condition that affects the normal opening and closing of the aortic valve, leading to restricted blood flow.

Understanding The Aortic Valve And Its Function

The human heart has four chambers, each separated by valves to regulate blood flow. The aortic valve, located between the left ventricle and the aorta, typically has three leaflets that open and close to facilitate proper circulation. However, some individuals are born with only two leaflets, a condition known as bicuspid aortic valve. Over time, these valves may become stiff and fail to open properly, leading to aortic stenosis.

Symptoms Of Aortic Stenosis

Patients with aortic stenosis may experience:

• Chest pain
• Lightheadedness or fainting (syncope attacks)
• Irregular heartbeats (palpitations)

If any of these symptoms appear, it is essential to undergo a 2D echocardiography, a heart imaging test similar to a sonography, to assess the severity of the condition.

Treatment Options For Aortic Valve Replacement

There are two primary methods for replacing the aortic valve:

1. Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement (SAVR) – A traditional open-heart surgery where the damaged valve is replaced with a new one.
2. Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) – A minimally invasive procedure performed through a small incision, similar to an angiography. The replacement valve is inserted via an artery in the leg and guided to the heart, where it is placed in position.

Who Can Benefit From TAVR?

TAVR is especially beneficial for:

• Elderly patients (aged 65–75 and above)
• Patients at high risk for open-heart surgery
• Individuals who are too weak to undergo major surgery

This procedure significantly simplifies valve replacement, allowing patients to recover within three to four days and return home without any major scars.

Conclusion

TAVR has revolutionized the treatment of aortic stenosis, offering a safer and faster recovery option for high-risk patients. Those seeking further information or having any queries can reach out for expert guidance.