Minimally invasive TAVR surgery shortens recovery time and lowers risk of infection
Less than 10 years ago, open-heart surgery was the norm for people with a damaged aortic valve in their heart. Now, thanks to transcatheter aortic valve replacement – known as the “TAVR” procedure – brothers like Mike and Steve Vandeveer can undergo this minimally invasive surgery to help shorten recovery time and reduce the risk of infection.
“We just happened to have the need for heart valve replacement at the same time,” said Mike. “Our TAVR procedures were performed at Ascension St. Vincent Evansville. Steve’s procedure preceded mine by two weeks.”
Symptoms of aortic valve disease
Mike and Steve both experienced several of the symptoms associated with aortic valve stenosis, or aortic valve disease. This condition hardens and narrows the aortic heart valve, which prevents the valve from opening and closing properly. Symptoms include:
- Chest pain and a feeling of tightness with activity
- Fatigue
- Feeling faint or dizzy with activity
- Shortness of breath with activity
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Over time, the condition can become life-threatening as the heart works harder than it should because it’s not getting the blood flow it needs.
The TAVR procedure
Anthony J. Voelkel, MD, an experienced interventional cardiologist, used TAVR to repair and replace Mike’s and Steve’s aortic valves. “We went to Dr. Voelkel. He explained everything in detail to a point that I never was apprehensive about it,” said Steve.
“During this minimally invasive procedure, a small catheter is inserted into the patient’s leg to guide the new valve into the heart,” said Dr. Voelkel. “This new valve relieves pressure on the heart and allows the heart to pump blood properly, restores blood flow, and reduces the signs and symptoms of aortic valve stenosis such as chest pain, shortness of breath, heart failure, fainting and fatigue. Only tiny incisions are required to replace the aortic valve, shortening the time in the hospital, recovery time and lowering the risk of infection.”
Some people go home the next day after a TAVR procedure. “After the procedure, the only thing I had were a couple of gauze pads at the entry point where they ran up the catheters,” said Mike. “There’s no extra weakness or dizziness,” Steve added. “It was a good experience.”
Heart and valve care at Ascension St. Vincent Evansville
If you are experiencing symptoms or need a second opinion, start a conversation with a doctor who listens at Ascension St. Vincent Evansville. We have the region’s most comprehensive valve and structural heart program, and offer the least invasive surgical options. This includes:
- Advanced diagnostics and imaging
- Collaboration between care teams of heart and vascular specialists
- Doctors with expertise in diagnosing and treating heart valve conditions
- Leading technology and advanced therapeutic and surgical treatments
- Personalized follow-up care and rehab to get you back to your life
Our cardiologists and care teams work with you to create a personalized care plan that meets all of your heart care needs. “It was amazing,” said Steve, “so I would encourage people to get the job done.”
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