TAVR
Also written as: TAVR — Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement, a minimally invasive procedure to replace the aortic valve without open surgery.
Full Definition
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), also known as transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat severe aortic stenosis in patients who are high-risk or inoperable for traditional surgical aortic valve replacement. The procedure involves inserting a collapsible valve through a catheter, typically via the femoral artery, and deploying it within the existing diseased valve. TAVR has revolutionized treatment options for elderly patients and those with multiple comorbidities. The procedure requires careful pre-procedural planning including CT imaging for valve sizing and assessment of vascular access routes.
Usage
Usage note: TAVR and TAVI are used interchangeably; TAVR is more common in North America
In Context
- "The patient underwent successful TAVR with a self-expanding valve via transfemoral approach." — procedure note
- "Post-TAVR echocardiography showed well-functioning prosthetic valve with no paravalvular leak." — follow-up report