TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure to treat severe aortic stenosis — a narrowing of the aortic valve that restricts blood flow from the heart. It is an alternative to open-heart surgery, especially for older adults or those with high surgical risk.
A new valve is delivered via catheter (usually through the leg) and implanted within the old, diseased valve. Benefits include:
- Shorter recovery time
- Lower procedural risk
- Improved symptoms and survival