Aortic stenosis is one of the most common and serious heart valve diseases. It occurs when the aortic valve—the “door” that opens to allow blood to flow from the heart to the rest of the body—becomes narrowed, restricting blood flow. Over time, this puts an immense strain on your heart, forcing it to work harder to push blood through the narrowed valve. Without timely intervention, this condition can lead to severe heart complications, including heart failure.
Luckily, advancements in cardiology have introduced Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), a minimally invasive procedure that’s changing how we treat aortic stenosis.
The aortic valve allows blood to leave the heart and enter the body’s main artery, the aorta. In aortic stenosis, this valve doesn’t fully open due to calcium buildup or congenital defects, leading to a restricted flow of blood.
Common symptoms include:
Over time, untreated aortic stenosis can cause the heart to enlarge and weaken, increasing the risk of heart failure or sudden death. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for managing this condition effectively.
For years, the standard treatment for severe aortic stenosis was open-heart surgery to replace the valve. While effective, this procedure carries risks, particularly for elderly or high-risk patients. That’s where Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) comes in.
TAVR is a game-changing procedure that allows cardiologists to replace the aortic valve using a minimally invasive approach. A catheter is inserted through a small incision in the groin or chest and guided to the heart. Once in place, a new valve is expanded inside the damaged valve, restoring normal blood flow. Unlike traditional open-heart surgery, TAVR requires smaller incisions, less recovery time, and is associated with fewer complications.
TAVR was initially reserved for patients who were too high-risk for traditional open-heart surgery, but today it is increasingly used in patients of varying risk profiles. Those who might benefit from TAVR include:
Q1: What causes aortic stenosis?
Aortic stenosis is primarily caused by age-related calcification of the aortic valve, but it can also result from birth defects (such as a bicuspid aortic valve), rheumatic fever, or radiation therapy. Over time, these factors lead to a stiffening of the valve, restricting its ability to open fully.
Q2: What are the risks of untreated aortic stenosis?
Untreated aortic stenosis can lead to heart failure, irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), stroke, or sudden cardiac arrest. It can also cause the heart muscle to weaken, leading to reduced blood flow to vital organs.
Q3: How do I know if I’m a candidate for TAVR?
If you’ve been diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis and are considered high or intermediate risk for traditional open-heart surgery, your doctor may recommend TAVR. A comprehensive evaluation, including imaging tests and a review of your overall health, will determine your eligibility.
Q4: How long does the TAVR procedure take?
The TAVR procedure usually takes about 1–2 hours. However, you’ll spend additional time in the hospital to ensure there are no complications and to monitor your recovery.
Q5: What are the risks associated with TAVR?
Although TAVR is considered less risky than traditional open-heart surgery, there are still some risks involved, including bleeding, infection, stroke, or damage to the heart’s conduction system. Your doctor will assess your risk factors before recommending TAVR.
Q6: How long will the new valve last after TAVR?
Studies show that TAVR valves have a durability of at least 10-15 years, but ongoing research continues to track long-term outcomes. Follow-up care is crucial for monitoring valve function over time.
Q7: Will I feel immediate improvement after TAVR?
Many patients feel a significant improvement in symptoms—such as reduced shortness of breath and increased energy levels—soon after the procedure. Full recovery, however, can take a few weeks.
Q8: Is TAVR covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover TAVR for patients who meet the criteria. It’s essential to check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage and understand any potential out-of-pocket costs.
Q9: Can I resume normal activities after TAVR?
Yes, one of the key benefits of TAVR is the shorter recovery time. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few weeks, but it’s important to follow your doctor’s recommendations and avoid strenuous activities until fully healed.
Q10: How can I prevent aortic stenosis or slow its progression?
While aortic stenosis caused by aging can’t always be prevented, maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle can reduce your risk. This includes managing blood pressure, avoiding smoking, staying physically active, and eating a balanced diet.
Dr. Sanjeev Gera | Best Cardiologist in Noida, specializing in TAVR, TAVI, Stentless Angioplasty, Pacemaker procedures, and advanced cardiac care. Recognized as the best TAVR expert in Noida and best TAVR doctor in Delhi, Dr. Gera is known for performing minimally invasive treatments like TAVR and stentless angioplasty at the best hospital for TAVR in Noida. Patients from Delhi and Noida trust Dr. Gera for his expertise in aortic valve replacement and other heart procedures. If you’re seeking the top cardiologist for aortic stenosis or the leading TAVR specialist in Noida and Delhi, Dr. Gera is your go-to expert for advanced heart treatments.
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