Conditions & Procedures
What Is TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement)?
Severe aortic stenosis is a progressive narrowing of the heart's aortic valve. Without treatment, it can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, and ultimately heart failure. Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) was developed to treat aortic stenosis without open-heart surgery.
What is TAVR?
TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure in which a replacement valve, mounted on a catheter, is delivered through a blood vessel and positioned inside the diseased aortic valve. The new valve is then expanded into place. In most cases the catheter is introduced through the femoral artery in the groin (transfemoral access). Alternative access routes — including transapical, transaortic, and the trans-caval approach pioneered in part by our team — are used in select patients.
How is TAVR different from open-heart surgery?
- No sternotomy (the breastbone is not opened)
- Most patients do not require cardiopulmonary bypass
- Hospital stays are typically shorter than with surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR)
- Recovery is usually faster
- Suitability depends on anatomy, frailty, and comorbidities
Who is a candidate for TAVR?
TAVR is FDA-approved for patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis across the spectrum of surgical risk. The decision between TAVR and SAVR is made by a Heart Team that includes interventional cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery, imaging, and anesthesia.
What are the risks of TAVR?
As with any cardiac procedure, TAVR carries risks, including bleeding, vascular complications at the access site, stroke, kidney injury, conduction abnormalities that may require a pacemaker, and rare valve-related complications. Your Heart Team will review individualized risks and benefits with you before any procedure.
What does cardiovascular research add to TAVR care?
Clinical trials continue to refine TAVR — studying newer valve designs, expanded indications (such as moderate aortic stenosis), and durability over longer follow-up. Amavita Research participates in structural-heart trial science under the leadership of Dr. William W. O'Neill, who served as National Principal Investigator for the Edwards PARTNER, Protect II, and Protect IV trials.
References
Frequently asked questions
What does TAVR stand for?
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement — replacement of the aortic heart valve via a catheter, without open-heart surgery.
Is TAVR FDA-approved?
Yes. TAVR is FDA-approved for symptomatic severe aortic stenosis across the spectrum of surgical risk. Indications continue to evolve as new evidence is published.
How long is recovery after TAVR?
Many patients are discharged within one to two days of the procedure and resume light activity over the following weeks. Recovery time varies by patient.
Who decides if I should have TAVR or surgery?
A multidisciplinary Heart Team — interventional cardiology, cardiac surgery, imaging, and anesthesia — reviews each case and discusses options with you.
Is TAVR available in Miami?
Yes. TAVR is performed at major Miami-area hospitals. Amavita Research participates in structural-heart clinical research under the leadership of Dr. William W. O'Neill.
What is the trans-caval approach to TAVR?
Trans-caval access uses the inferior vena cava and abdominal aorta as a conduit when conventional access is unsuitable. It is used selectively at experienced centers.