Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR)

TAVR Treatment in San Antonio

If you have aortic stenosis, symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath and chest pain are likely part of your daily life. Now, an advanced and minimally invasive option is available for most patients with aortic stenosis. This catheter-based procedure, or transcatheter aortic valve replacement, is commonly called a TAVR procedure.

The Aortic Valve Clinic and Heart Center is your comprehensive resource for cardiovascular care, including heart valve repair and replacement therapies like TAVR.

What Is TAVR?

The TAVR procedure uses a catheter to insert the new valve through the artery in the groin. The new valve is then placed inside the narrow aortic valve and slowly released and deployed.

Echocardiogram and fluoroscopy are used to confirm valve placement. Most TAVR cases at our hospital are done with moderate sedation without the need for general anesthesia. 

Why TAVR May Be an Option for You

Our multidisciplinary team treats patients with aortic stenosis who are good candidates for the catheter-based device with TAVR. The TAVR procedure allows a shorter recovery time and hospital stay. This means you’ll be back enjoying your normal life within few days after the procedure.

Benefits of TAVR

• Shorter hospital stays, as most patients go home within one to two days
• Faster returns to normal activities, often less than a week
• Improved patient outcomes and quality of life in patients who are at high risk for surgery
• Ability to do the procedure with minimal sedation in many cases, avoiding intubation and general anesthesia

Who Qualifies for TAVR?

When you visit to the Aortic Valve Clinic, our specialists will perform a full evaluation. We conduct a variety of tests to determine if TAVR is right for you, including:

• Echocardiogram of your aortic valve
• Computed tomography (CT) angiogram
• Coronary angiography
• Assessment of any existing conditions

Recovery after Surgery

TAVR patients typically spend one to two nights in the hospital before they are discharged and referred to start cardiac rehab.

TAVR San Antonio

University Hospital and University of Texas Health San Antonio Heart and Vascular Institute was the first center in San Antonio to offer this innovative therapy, and among few centers in the country to participate in the original clinical trials that led to TAVR approval.

Our experts have extensive experience in TAVR, and University Hospital is one of the only health systems in the region to offer the full spectrum of advanced TAVR options (Valve-in-Valve TAVR, and alternative access TAVR). Our team offers patients the highest level of expertise and care to ensure excellent outcomes.

Schedule an Appointment in the Aortic Valve Clinic

Do you have aortic stenosis and want to speak to our experts?
Phone: 210-450-4888 and 210-450-9247 

To refer a patient, please contact the valve coordinator. 
Phone: 210-450-9247 
Fax: 210-450-6018