Advances in cardiac medicine continue to provide innovative options for patients struggling with heart problems. Bayhealth is proud to lead the way in bringing these to our communities. Our Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) program is the first and only in Delaware to be certified by the American College of Cardiology (ACC). Considered a game-changer in cardiac surgery worldwide, TAVR is a recommended alternative to open heart surgery for some patients with severe aortic stenosis needing a new heart valve.
While open heart surgery has been the standard for an aortic valve replacement, it can present greater risks to certain patients based on age, overall health or other factors. Aortic stenosis, also called an aortic valve obstruction, can weaken a person’s heart by causing it to work harder to pump blood throughout the body. Patients may feel weak, dizzy, have no tolerance for exercise, or be unable to complete their daily functions. Without treatment, this condition worsens and can be fatal.
For patients who meet the criteria, Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) may be the best choice to get back to life. Since Bayhealth’s TAVR program began in 2016, it has continued to grow and provide exceptional outcomes to patients, vastly improving their quality of life. Our ACC certification is further testament to our commitment to meeting the highest quality and safety standards for our patients.
The minimally invasive TAVR procedure involves insertion of a catheter into the femoral artery (through the patient’s groin or leg) and advanced imaging to guide a replacement valve into place. The new valve expands to fill the space, pushing the old valve out of the way. The benefits include no incision, shorter hospital stay and faster recovery.
To learn more about Bayhealth’s Valve Clinic and our TAVR program, or to refer a patient please call 302-744-7980.