Saltar al contenido principal
Qué es la valvuloplastia aórtica con catéter (TAVR) (Understanding Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR))

Qué es la valvuloplastia aórtica con catéter (TAVR) (Understanding Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR))

Condados de Broward, Miami-Dade y Monroe
Llame al 786-204-4204
Condado de Palm Beach
Llame al 833-816-2328
  • Centro de Tratamiento de Válvulas Cardíacas

    Diagnósticos precisos y tratamientos especializados de trastornos valvulares mediante técnicas abiertas, mínimamente invasivas o con catéter, como la valvuloplastia aórtica con catéter.

Todavía no contamos con información detallada en español. A continuación se ofrece el contenido en inglés como referencia.
image wrapper

Understanding Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a procedure to replace a diseased aortic valve with a new tissue or biologic valve. The old heart valve is not removed but works like an anchor for the new heart valve. This procedure is done through small incisions using a long thin tube (catheter), X-rays, and ultrasound. TAVR is also known as transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

The aortic valve directs blood flow from the heart (left ventricle) into the aorta (large blood vessel) and carries blood to the rest of the body. In some people, the valve becomes scarred and stiff and has trouble opening. This is called aortic stenosis. The heart then has to work harder to push blood through the narrowed heart valve to the rest of the body. Over time, the extra work can cause the heart muscle to get weak. This may lead to symptoms such as tiredness, shortness of breath, chest pain, and fainting. It can also lead to heart failure.

In TAVR, the catheter is usually placed in the femoral artery in your groin. Sometimes, the catheter is placed through the axillary artery near your armpit or the carotid artery in your neck. Occasionally, the catheter is placed through a small incision in your chest underneath the collarbone or an incision between the ribs. The health care provider uses the catheter to bring the new valve to your heart. The new valve is made of cow or pig heart tissue and is mounted on a metal frame. The new valve helps improve blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body.

Front view of male figure showing cardiovascular system with catheter inserted in femoral artery to heart. Other possible catheter insertion sites shown.

Reasons for TAVR

TAVR may be a choice for some people instead of surgical aortic valve replacement. This will be based on age, surgical risks, how bad your aortic stenosis is, other medical factors, and other cardiac issues. Your health care team will determine if TAVR is a good choice for you.

Risks and possible complications

TAVR works very well in most people. But all medical procedures carry some risks and possible complications. Some common risks of TAVR include:

  • Bleeding or the need for a blood transfusion.

  • Anemia (not enough red blood cells in the blood).

  • Blood clots.

  • Infection.

  • Collection of fluid around your heart (pericardial effusion).

  • Confusion or memory problems.

  • Damage to the heart.

  • Damage to your blood vessels.

  • Failure of the new valve.

  • Heart attack.

  • Heart rhythm problems that may need a pacemaker.

  • Kidney damage or failure.

  • Lung puncture.

  • Stroke.

  • Risks of anesthesia (including death).

  • In rare cases, the new heart valve moving out of position after it was implanted.

  • Leaking of blood in or around the new heart valve.

You may have other risks, depending on your medical condition. Be sure to talk with your health care provider if you have any concerns before the procedure.

Life after a heart valve replacement

  • A new heart valve can help ease symptoms you may have had. These include pain or pressure in your chest, shortness of breath, and tiredness.

  • After the surgery, you will need to take aspirin or other blood-thinning medicine every day. You will likely also need to take an antiplatelet medicine for a certain period of time. These medicines help prevent blood clots in your new valve.

  • You will need to take antibiotics before you have dental work and certain other medical procedures, as prescribed by your health care provider. This is to help prevent bacteria from harming your new heart valve.

  • Your provider may tell you to make some lifestyle changes to protect your heart and make it stronger. These include exercise, quitting smoking, and staying at a healthy weight.

  • After your recovery from TAVR, you may be able to return to regular activities. You should notice improvement in the symptoms from your heart valve disease. Be sure to talk to your provider before you start any exercise program.

Noticias recientes

View All
Analizando un Nuevo Estudio sobre Muertes por Cardiopatías Vinculadas a Factores de Riesgo Modificables 5 de agosto de 2026

Un nuevo estudio a nivel nacional ofrece noticias tanto alentadoras como preocupantes sobre la principal causa de muerte en el país. Mientras que los adultos estadounidenses han logrado avances...

Qué le Sucede al Corazón al Permanecer Sentado Demasiado Tiempo 29 de julio de 2026

La mayoría de las personas saben que el ejercicio regular es importante para la salud del corazón. Sin embargo, cada vez hay más investigaciones que sugieren que lo que se hace durante el resto del...

Cuándo el Dolor en el Pecho es Algo Más que Acidez: ¿Cuáles son las Señales de Advertencia? 27 de julio de 2026

Muchas personas han experimentado la sensación de ardor propia de la acidez estomacal después de una comida abundante o picante. En la mayoría de los casos, se debe al reflujo ácido y no constituye...

El Daño Cardíaco por Diabetes Puede Desarrollarse Silenciosamente con el Tiempo 21 de julio de 2026

Millones de estadounidenses viven con diabetes, controlando cuidadosamente sus niveles de azúcar en sangre y cuidando su dieta. Sin embargo, es posible que muchos no se den cuenta de que, mientras se...

¿Tiene preguntas?

Estamos aquí para ayudarle en todo momento. Si necesitas ayuda o quieres saber más, solo tienes que llamarnos.

Language Preference / Preferencia de idioma

I want to see the site in English

Continue In English

Quiero ver el sitio en Español

Continuar en español