Linda's Posts

Linda, the TAVR is such a new procedure that they really don't have enough data to say how many times. I do know that my aunt had a SAVR, then 12 years later had a TAVR and 9 years after that another TAVR. But she got an aggressive cancer and passed away so we don't know how long the 3rd valve would have lasted. Praying for a successful TAVR for you. Godspeed.

Linda, I had an AVR via sternotomy last month. I originally though I wanted a TAVR but two separated surgical teams talked me out of it based on my age. I am 58 and both recommended replacing the valve via a full sternotomy. The reasons where the likelihood of another valve replacement. Both teams explained to me that a TAVR in TAVR is a much risker and more complicated surgery than replacing a valve via TAVR into a valve that was replaced via SAVR. They cited reasons such as not only replacing the valve but correcting any other problems they found reducing the risks/complications for a follow on TAVR. They also would not commit to how long an initial TAVR valve would last. In my own reading I found plenty of supporting evidence that the durability as comparable to a SAVR valve. Maybe this can help with a new conversation with your Doc. You are going to be fine. You got this.