Tag: Transcatheter

Understanding options for patients helps you be a more effective caregiver.

Takeaways

• Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is an alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement for some patients.
  
• Understanding TAVR approaches, post-procedure monitoring, and potential complications will help nurses better care for patients undergoing TAVR.

By Kelly Haight, MSN, APRN, ACNS-BC, PCCN

For many years, surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) was the gold-standard treatment for severe, symptomatic aortic stenosis (AS). For eligible patients, this procedure can improve symptoms and extend life. But it has a major drawback: Whether the surgical approach is open (using a full sternotomy) or less invasive (using a ministernotomy or minithoracotomy), SAVR requires cross-clamping of the aorta and cardiopulmonary bypass.