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Stanford Health Care

Techniques of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)

Our Approach

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a newer, minimally invasive approach for treating aortic valve disease. The TAVR procedure has expanded the possibilities for replacing the aortic valve, and we continue to help shape its evolution.

For people who cannot undergo surgery to replace narrowed valves, TAVR first provided an effective option where none existed. Recently, it also presented a minimally invasive alternative for people who could endure an operation, but faced moderate risk. Now, we are investigating its possible use in an even wider range of people.

FEATURED

Ask the Heart Expert: Dr. Fearon Explains TAVR for Aortic Stenosis
Stanford patient avoids open heart surgery in aortic valve replacement

WHAT WE OFFER YOU FOR TAVR

  • Deep experience, with our program as the first in Northern California and the second in the state performing TAVR. We complete more than 250 procedures a year, the region’s highest volume.
  • Nationally recognized expertise, with our doctors offering TAVR since its beginning. We have years of experience working with the procedure and contributing to its development.
  • Team approach that includes surgeons with previous valve replacement experience and interventional cardiologists who have mastered minimally invasive treatment. They partner with top imaging specialists.
  • Access to the latest valves by participating in clinical trials. TAVR constantly evolves. We receive valves still being studied, as well as those released in limited quantities upon FDA approval.
  • Additional types of TAVR, with our team often able to do a second procedure when an earlier replacement valve wears out.
  • Active research program, starting with TAVR’s first clinical trials. A Stanford doctor co-authored the paper on TAVR and moderate surgical risk, and we now participate in a study of low risk.

What Is TAVR?

Make An Appointment

To schedule an appointment with the TAVR program, please call 650-725-2687

To schedule an appointment with the Valvular Heart Disease Center, please call 650-723-6459

TAVR Techniques

TAVR involves implanting a new, collapsible valve made from animal tissue. During the procedure, our team:

  1. Makes a small incision in the femoral artery in the groin
  2. Injects contrast dye and uses X-rays to monitor the procedure
  3. Inserts a thin tube called a catheter in the artery and threads it toward your aortic valve
  4. Places a catheter-based pacemaker on the right side of your heart to control your heart rate
  5. Guides the new valve into place inside the old one
  6. Expands the implant, so that it pins the flaps of the old valve out of the way and takes over
  7. Removes the pacemaker and catheter

Our Clinics

Structural Heart Program

Our experts offer comprehensive diagnostics and leading-edge treatments for structural heart conditions including TAVR. Our nationally recognized interventional cardiologists and heart surgeons work together with heart failure specialists and imaging experts to provide the most advanced and personalized care.

Structural Heart Program
View All Locations
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT FIND A DOCTOR OR PROVIDER

RELATED CLINICS

300 Pasteur Dr
 3rd Fl Rm A31
 Palo Alto, CA 94305
Phone: 650-723-6459