Percutaneous Aortic Valve Replacement (PAVR) is a new technology used for treatment of aortic valve disease. There are cases where the heart’s aortic valve becomes narrowed thus preventing it from opening properly. This in turn blocks the blood flow from the left lower chamber of the heart to the aorta. In order to maintain the normal blood flow percutaneous aortic valve replacement is done. Percutaneous aortic valve replacement is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed to correct severe aortic stenosis. In this procedure, the diseased aortic valve is replaced to restore normal blood flow.
Procedure
The Percutaneous aortic valve replacement is performed through a small incision of about 5cm in the chest where a balloon catheter (that is pre-mounted with a tissue valve) is guided to the ailing heart valve. The doctors make use of the echocardiograph and fluoroscope for visualisation during the valve delivery. The new valve is thus placed across the stenotic valve by balloon expansion.
Uses and Complications
In recent times, advancements in technology has served as a boon for a large number of patients suffering from severe aortic stenosis, including older patients or patients suffering from additional conditions. This new type of procedure has the ability to treat and heal many ailments of these patients for whom the only go was the traditional open-heart surgery. The percutaneous aortic valve replacement method reduces the pain and fear of patients with aortic valve stenosis. The main reason for this is that the heart need not be opened up when compared to the traditional methods. The other advantage of percutaneous aortic valve replacement is that since it is less invasive, the pace of recovery is high.
Percutaneous Aortic Valve Replacement is a novel technology which is very promising. But as with all the procedures, there are a few risks associated with PAVR. There could be chances for an Infection to occur at the place where the catheter is inserted. There could even be a chance of bleeding to occur at the site where the catheter is inserted.
Are You Ready for PAVR?
Before you undergo any surgery or treatment, it is very important to make sure that you are actually ready for the treatment both physically and mentally. Same is the case with Percutaneous Aortic Valve Replacement. PAVR is not suitable for patients with severe aortic stenosis, aged people, and for people with poor heart function. To conclude, PAVR is considered as the most apt and safe procedure with minimal complications.