Preparing for TAVR

The sooner you treat severe symptomatic aortic stenosis, also known as heart valve failure , with TAVR, the sooner you can get back to the life you want to live. Although life can get busy, treating your heart valve failure should still be a priority. TAVR (also known as transcatheter aortic valve replacement) is a less invasive treatment option compared to open heart surgery. With TAVR you don't need to have your chest opened and it has a shorter procedure time and hospital stay compared to surgery. Most patients return home the next day and have a shorter recovery time, getting them back to everyday activities.

It's normal to have questions about the procedure and how quickly you can get back to your second act. It is important to ask your TAVR doctor questions you may have.

What to do before TAVR

Your TAVR Doctor will provide information and specific instructions on preparing for your TAVR procedure. In addition to these instructions, there are a few things you might consider in the weeks and days leading up to your procedure.


Ask how much you can exercise

Ask your TAVR Doctor what level of activity is appropriate. Even short periods of exercise can become difficult depending on how severe your  heart valve failure  has become. It is important to make note of new symptoms that might arise when exercising, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or feeling faint.


Talk to your doctor about your medications

Consult your TAVR Doctor to figure out which medications you should or should not take leading up to and on the day of your procedure.


Eat a healthy diet

Talk to your TAVR Doctor about which foods are recommended. Also, discuss with your TAVR Doctor if and when you should stop eating or drinking prior to your procedure.


Get a dental checkup

Because oral bacteria can cause infection of the valve, it is important to visit your dentist prior to TAVR to make sure you are in good dental health.


Make a recovery plan

TAVR has a shorter procedure time and hospital stay compared to surgery. Most patients return home the next day and have a shorter recovery time, getting them back to everyday activities. However, some patients may take longer to go home. Your doctor can provide more specific information about how long you may be in the hospital. It’s important to work out details such as who will take you home, stay with you, and/or help you prepare meals.


Ask any questions you have about the TAVR procedure

Your TAVR Doctor will walk you through the details of the procedure. Ask questions about anything you don’t understand. Find out what happens during the TAVR procedure.

Learn about TAVR valves

Interested to learn about the newest TAVR valve that has the same advanced tissue technology as the leading surgical valve?

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  • Education on heart valve failure and symptoms checklist
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  • Videos of patients sharing their experiences with TAVR
  • Discussion guide for talking with your doctor
  • List of hospitals in your area that perform TAVR
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