Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a minimally invasive procedure, performed by highly skilled multidisciplinary team of heart valve specialists. The procedure is performed to replace a narrowed aortic valve that fails to open properly (known as aortic valve stenosis). Transcatheter aortic valve replacement is sometimes called transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

TAVR may be an option for people who are considered at intermediate or high risk of complications from surgical aortic valve replacement. TAVR may also be indicated in certain people who can’t undergo open-heart surgery. The decision to treat aortic stenosis with TAVR is made only after consultation with a multidisciplinary group of medical and surgical heart specialists who together determine the best treatment option for each individual.

TAVR can relieve the signs and symptoms of aortic valve stenosis and may improve survival in people who can’t undergo surgery or have a high risk of surgical complications.