What is TAVR ?

Non-surgical Valve replacement via no-scalpel no-stitch technique

TAVR refers to Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement. It is also called as TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation).

TAVR is a minimally invasive percutaneous valve replacement procedure performed via catheter to replace a narrowed aortic valve (severe Aortic Valve stenosis) that fails to open properly. TAVR procedure can be performed under sedation or local anaesthesia. It is almost like undergoing angioplasty (stenting) requiring only 3 days of hospitalization. Patient can be mobilized on the next day after the procedure. This TAVR procedure avoids scalpel/stitches and open heart surgery.

Currently TAVR procedure is indicated in patients with native calcific aortic valve stenosis or in patients with prior surgically replaced bioprosthetic aortic valve which are dysfunctional now. Previously TAVR procedure was approved for patients who are either inoperable (cannot undergo open heart surgery) or at high risk for open heart surgery ; but now TAVR procedure is approved for patients who are at intermediate or low risk for open heart surgery also.