DTMT Network
The recent launch of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) at Hyderabad’s Apollo Hospitals has given new hope to people who need this procedure. TAVR is a non-surgical replacement of heart valve that was recently performed on five patients on a single day in the Apollo Hospitals.

TAVR is an advanced sutureless procedure performed to replace a damaged aortic valve.

An Apollo Hospitals press release states that the gold standard treatment for aortic valve disease is replacing the valve by performing open heart surgery. But forty per cent of patients of aortic valve diseases are found not fit for the surgery due to the high risk associated with advanced age and related health ailments.

TAVR is the latest in the field and provides hope for the elderly needing aortic valve replacement.

Informing about TAVR conducted on five patients, Dr A Sreenivas Kumar, Sr. Consultant Cardiologist and Director, Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, said that when these patients came, they were breathless, couldn't sit, sleep and had to endure terrible discomfort.

Dr Kumar added that patients were not eligible for surgery as their heart blood pumping ability was low and their advanced age didn't help. TAVR came to their rescue.

Dr Kumar claimed that TAVR is safe and effective with 95% success rate and all those with valve disease can avail the facility. 30 to 40% of aortic valve patients, if not treated in time, will die within two years.

Cardiologists having intensive training in TAVR with dexterity can ensure good outcomes from this complex procedure.