Both TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement) and AVR (Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement) are procedures to replace a damaged aortic valve, but they differ significantly in how they're performed.
Here's a quick breakdown:
- TAVR — A minimally invasive procedure where a new valve is inserted through a blood vessel Show Full Answer
Both TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement) and AVR (Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement) are procedures to replace a damaged aortic valve, but they differ significantly in how they're performed.
Here's a quick breakdown:
- TAVR — A minimally invasive procedure where a new valve is inserted through a blood vessel, usually in the leg, using a thin tube called a catheter. No open-heart surgery is needed.
- AVR — Traditional open-heart surgery to replace the valve. It's more invasive and carries higher risks, particularly for older adults or those with additional health complications. For people with amyloidosis, TAVR is generally the preferred option. It's less risky and better suited for older adults or those whose health makes open-heart surgery more dangerous.
It's worth noting that in some cases, ATTR amyloidosis may not show up clearly on imaging until *after* TAVR has improved heart function — so your care team may monitor you closely following the procedure.
Always discuss with your doctor which option is most appropriate for your specific situation.
May 29
Thank you for the good advise. I do hope I will never need it. As of right now I have only had to have stents.
May 30
Join
Your Privacy Choices
