Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)
Memorial Hospital is one of the select providers in the nation, and the first hospital in Kern County, to offer patients a minimally invasive procedure for heart valve replacement. Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) allows for valve replacement without opening a patient’s chest.
VIDEO: Cardiac experts at Memorial Hospital's Sarvanand Heart and Brain Center announce the successful outcome of Kern County’s first transcatheter aortic valve replacement procedures in 2016.
What is TAVR?
TAVR is a less invasive procedure for patients with severe aortic valve stenosis who are too frail or ill for traditional open-heart surgery to replace their natural aortic valve. It provides both short- and long-term relief of aortic stenosis symptoms by restoring normal aortic valve function and improving overall quality of life and life expectancy. The procedure takes place in Memorial Hospital's cardiac catheterization laboratory, and is staffed by an expert combination of surgical and interventional specialists and team members.
What happens during the TAVR procedure?
During TAVR, the surgeon attaches the replacement heart valve onto a balloon and inserts the balloon into the body via catheter through the patient’s leg or chest while the patient is under general anesthesia. The new valve is positioned into the faulty aortic valve and the balloon is inflated, precisely positioning the replacement valve.
How do I know if I’m a good TAVR candidate?
TAVR is approved by the FDA for patients with severe aortic stenosis who are too frail or high-risk for traditional open-heart surgery. After extensive testing, our cardiovascular services team will evaluate your results and determine the best way to treat your aortic stenosis.
How long will I be in the hospital?
Typically three to five days. Following the procedure, patients initially recover in the Critical Care Unit. Transfer to a step-down unit is expected in 24 hours or less. Recovery emphasizes early ambulation and a return to normal everyday activities.
What should I expect during the recovery process?
Since TAVR requires only a small incision, most patients can return to normal activities within a few days, much faster than with traditional valve replacement surgery.
Learn more
Talk to your physician to determine if TAVR is right for you. To find a doctor, please call (661) 324-7070 or visit our online Find a Doctor tool. For TAVR-related questions, please contact our Structural Heart Program Coordinator at (661) 541-0417.
At risk for heart disease?
Heart disease comes in many forms and can affect people of any age, gender, or ethnicity. In fact, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. The more you can learn about your heart health, the better. Knowledge is truly powerful medicine that helps you understand your risks and take action to lessen your potential for problems. It can lead to early detection, and most importantly, to early treatment and better outcomes.
Take this quick assessment to:
- Understand symptoms, causes, and types of heart disease
- Determine your risk factors for developing heart disease
- Learn which lifestyle factors can decrease your risk
