Valve Replacement (TAVR)
TAVR (transcatheter aortic valve replacement) is a minimally invasive alternative to open heart surgery, backed by a multidisciplinary team of cardiologists, surgeons, and nurse navigators.
Pioneers and Experts in TAVR
As the first hospital in the Midlands to perform the TAVR procedure, we have completed more than 600 TAVR surgeries.
Who should consider TAVR?
Patients with severe aortic stenosis who are not candidates for open heart surgery because of their age, history of heart disease or other health issues.
What to Expect
Your doctor will make a small incision in your groin and position your new valve directly inside the old one. Your new valve will start functioning immediately.
Minimally Invasive Access
TAVR can usually be performed through trans-caval access, a technique that uses your femoral artery for less bleeding, fewer complications and a quicker recovery.
Duration
Plan for this procedure to take about 2 hours.
Recovery
TAVR has a significantly shorter recovery time than traditional open heart surgery. Most patients return home within 24 hours, though your activities will be restricted for a few weeks after.
Devices
Sentinel™ Cerebral Protect System
This device lowers the risk of stroke in patients undergoing TAVR by filtering debris in the blood that could cause a stroke if blood flow is blocked.
WATCHMAN™
As one of the first programs in SC to use this device during TAVR procedures, we use this device to reduce the risk of stroke by preventing blood clots.
Types of Valves
Boston Scientific LOTUS Edge™
An FDA-approved aortic valve replacement for patients with severe aortic stenosis.
Edwards Lifesciences SAPIEN 3
A special valve that helps high-risk patients avoid an additional open heart procedure.
Medtronic EvolutPRO+
This valve offers a smaller delivery option to benefit healthier, more active patients.
