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The Queen’s Medical Center (Punchbowl)
1301 Punchbowl Street
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Phone:
808-691-1000
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement, commonly known as TAVR or TAVI, is a medical procedure used to replace a narrowed aortic heart valve that does not open properly, a condition known as aortic valve stenosis. Unlike open-heart surgery, TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure and is suitable for those who cannot undergo traditional surgical interventions.
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.
TAVR is most commonly recommended for individuals with aortic valve stenosis who are unable to undergo surgery.
Please call 808-691-8808 to connect with our team of highly-trained cardiovascular nurses. They will provide personalized assistance in making an appointment with a provider best suited to treat your heart and vascular needs.
Before the Procedure
Prior to your TAVR procedure, you may be instructed to stop taking certain medications. Additionally, you may be asked to undergo physical examinations or imaging tests, such as CT scans, echocardiograms, and blood tests. Your care team will provide you with any necessary instructions prior to your procedure.
During the Procedure
Guided by X-ray images, a catheter containing a collapsible heart valve is led into the aortic heart valve while the heart is still beating. The catheter, which is only about the size of a pen, is inserted through the groin, arm, or neck arteries. Once the replacement valve is in place, it is expanded, pushing aside the damaged old valve. The replacement heart valve starts functioning immediately.
After the Procedure
Because the TAVR procedure is minimally invasive, most patients can expect an in-hospital recovery time of one day or less. In some cases, patients may require 2-3 days of hospitalization following the procedure.
Our compassionate team of healthcare professionals is here to support you throughout your health journey. In the weeks following your TAVR procedure, your team will be able to assist with any questions or concerns you may have in your recovery.
We recommend undergoing cardiac rehabilitation a few weeks after the procedure, as it has been proven to strengthen the heart, improve symptoms, and increase functionality.
We are a recognized leader in providing high-quality, state-of-the-art heart and vascular care.
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.
Making an appointment with our world-class providers couldn’t be easier.
Call 808-691-8808 to speak with our team of highly trained cardiovascular nurses. They will assist you in scheduling an appointment with a provider who can best address your individual heart and vascular needs.
Most patients go home the day after the procedure or in 1-2 days with close follow up in our clinic.
The TAVR valves are made of either pig or cow heart tissue. The frame of the valve is made from specialized materials for strength and durability. Your provider will decide which valve will be best for you.
CT and MRIs are generally safe after TAVR. It is important to tell any health care provider that you’ve undergone a TAVR procedure before any CT or MRI study.
It is important that you notify your dentist that you’ve had your heart valve replaced. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends lifelong use of antibiotics prior to any dental procedure (including cleaning) following heart valve replacement.
