Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a minimally invasive procedure to replace a narrowed aortic heart valve that fails to open properly (aortic valve stenosis).  TAVR is the visionary alternative to open heart surgery.  The Queen’s Medical Center was the first hospital in Hawaii to share this life-saving treatment that is giving hope to heart patients who need it most.  The decision to treat aortic stenosis with TAVR is made after consultation with a multidisciplinary group of medical and surgical heart specialists who together determine the best treatment option for each individual.

Guided by X-ray images, with the heart still beating, a catheter containing a collapsible heart valve is inserted through the groin, arm or neck arteries, until it reaches the aortic heart valve.  The catheter is only about the diameter of a pen.

Once in place, the replacement valve is expanded, pushing aside the damaged old valve and the replacement heart valve begins to function immediately.

Because the procedure is minimally invasive, most patients can expect an in-hospital recovery time of one day or less.

The Queen’s Medical Center Heart Program is a recognized leader in providing high-quality, state-of-the-art heart and vascular care. Making an appointment with our world-class providers couldn’t be easier.

Through our QUEEN’S ACCESS program, please call 808-691-8808.

You will be connected to our team of highly trained cardiovascular nurses. They will provide you with personalized assistance in making an appointment with a provider that is best suited to treat your individual heart and vascular needs.

If you feel this is an emergency, please call 911

Frequently Asked Questions