Heart Valve Clinic
Aortic stenosis affects more than 2.5 million people over the age of 75 in the United States, and that number is expected to grow as more people get older. This condition is caused by a narrowing of the aortic valve opening. When the leaflets of the aortic valve become stiff, the valve cannot fully open or close like it should. As the opening becomes smaller, it makes it harder for the heart to pump blood to the rest of your body and can affect your health.
In March 2021, the Heart Valve Clinic at United Regional Health Care System opened to offer evaluation and treatment options for patients with aortic stenosis. Our specialized program uses a multi-disciplinary approach that focuses on patient-centered care. A team of cardiac specialists works collaboratively with the referring physician to ensure that each patient receives the most appropriate care for his or her unique case.
Current American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology guidelines suggest valve replacement for the majority of symptomatic patients with severe aortic stenosis. Without aortic valve replacement, severe aortic stenosis is potentially life-threatening.
Heart Valve Clinic patients who meet certain criteria will have the option of the Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) procedure, which offers patients in and around Wichita Falls a less invasive way to be treated for aortic stenosis, compared to traditional open surgery.
Watch Mike Oswald share his story about how TAVR gave him and his wife a new lease on life:
Watch the video below to learn more about TAVR: