Transcatheter Therapies

3D illustration of Heart, medical concept_web Transcatheter therapies are minimally-invasive procedures performed through a catheter using small incisions rather than open surgery. The catheter can be used to deliver various intravascular devices, including a balloon, coils and stents, which may help patients at high risk of morbidity and mortality from open heart surgery.

Transcatheter therapies are procedures for cardiac patients with heart valve disease or congenital heart defects which may be too high risk for more traditional heart surgeries.

Some of the procedures with minimally invasive treatment options include: mitral valves, replacement of aortic valves, sealing of leaks and more.

Who is a candidate?

After a full medical history, physical exam and diagnostic tests, you and your physician will discuss if you are a candidate for Transcatheter Therapy. At this time, most patients who undergo this procedure are not candidates for open heart surgery. This is due to the risks based on their overall health. Transcatheter therapy can be a good option for those who may not be able to undergo surgery for the repair of their condition.

How is it performed?

The doctor makes an incision in the groin where a catheter is inserted into a vein. Through this pathway, the surgeon can treat or repair the damaged tissue.

Transcatheter therapies offer a quicker recovery than similar procedures done with open heart surgery. Your specific recovery depends on many factors, including the type of procedure and how healthy you were beforehand. Your doctor will give you specific instructions regarding the appropriate diet and exercise modifications to make, along with any necessary medications.