That’s why cardiothoracic surgeons and cardiologists at Freeman Heart & Vascular Institute take a different approach by inserting a replacement valve in the aorta through a vein in the upper thigh. 

Freeman was the first health system in the area to successfully perform transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Since June 2017, Freeman has successfully performed over 300 TAVR procedures. The minimally invasive technique gives hope to four-state patients who suffer from severe aortic stenosis but who are not ideal candidates for a complex open-heart surgery.

TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure in which a folded valve is slipped into a catheter, inserted through the groin and threaded up to the heart through the arteries. When the valve reaches its destination near the heart, a balloon inflates to open the valve and secure its position in the artery. 

This procedure is done while the heart remains pumping, eliminating the need for a heart-lung machine and takes an average of 45 minutes to two hours. Freeman’s median length of inpatient stay post-procedure is 2.06 days.

Patients go through a comprehensive screening process with the structural heart team prior to the procedure, and then that same team of physicians place the patient’s new heart valve.

The Structural Heart Program features:

• Collaborative team of interventional cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons and echocardiologists.
• Diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the valves and other vital structures of the heart.
• Personalized, coordinated care and comprehensive range of medical and surgical treatment options for patients throughout the region.

For more information about Freeman Heart & Vascular Institute – and to learn about types of heart conditions, early detection, risk factors and more helpful resources – visit freemanhealth.com/hearts or call 417.347.5000.