If you have a heart condition that requires a heart valve replacement, there is good news. Today, there are options that use a minimally invasive approach. A transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a minimally invasive option with many benefits. The cardiac specialists at WMCHealth are here to provide patients throughout the Hudson Valley and beyond with the highest quality cardiac care using the most advanced cardiac technology. If you need to undergo a TAVR procedure, the best care is in your community.
What Is a TAVR?
TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure to replace a narrowed aortic valve in the heart. While the TAVR procedure was originally designed as an alternative for only high-risk patients unstable enough for more invasive techniques, it is now used for low-risk patients.

When Is TAVR Needed?
The most common reason for TAVR is aortic stenosis, a narrowing of the aortic valve, usually caused by calcium buildup. Your doctor may also recommend TAVR if:
- Your aortic valve is not working as well as it should.
- You have another health condition that makes a more invasive procedure too risky.
- You have symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath or are experiencing heart failure.
Are There Risks with TAVR?
TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure that has many benefits over more invasive procedures, including:
- A shorter and easier recovery
- A shorter hospital stay
- Higher likelihood of better health after the surgery
However, as is the case with all medical procedures, there are risks. These may include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Irregular heartbeat
- Damage to blood vessels
- Kidney injury/failure
- Heart attack
- Stroke
How to Prepare for TAVR
While TAVR is minimally invasive, it is a serious medical procedure. There are some necessary preparations. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on diet and medications prior to the procedure. Other steps to take may include:
Diagnostic Tests

Your medical team may perform several diagnostic tests to help plan the TAVR procedure given your specific circumstances. These may include:
- Blood tests
- EKG
- Cardiac catheterization
- Echocardiogram
Talk to Your Doctor
It’s important to have open communication with your doctor. Be sure to:
- Ask any questions about the procedure or life afterwards.
- Voice any concerns you have about the procedure.
- Inform them of all medication you take, including vitamins, herbs and over-the-counter medications.
- Discuss any allergies you may have.
What to Expect During TAVR
Before the TAVR procedure begins, your team will place an IV and will likely provide a moderate sedative to put you to sleep. This medication will help prevent pain but is n’t as strong as anesthesia and doesn’t involve a ventilator.
During the TAVR procedure, your care team will:
- Insert a Catheter. A catheter, which is a tiny tube, is inserted into a blood vessel, usually in the upper thigh. It’s sometimes inserted into a vessel in the chest or neck. The doctor guides the catheter to the right place using sophisticated imaging tools.
- Replace the Valve. Once the catheter reaches the aortic valve, a biological tissue valve made from cow or pig heart is placed inside the old valve and expanded.
- Remove the Catheter. Once the new valve is securely in place, the doctor removes the catheter. You may need to spend a night in the ICU for close monitoring, but you should be able to leave the hospital in a couple of days. Most people experience an improved quality of life after having TAVR.