Aortic stenosis and the TAVR procedure
Know the signs. Discover non-invasive solutions.
What is aortic stenosis?
Aortic stenosis is a condition where the aortic valve narrows. Oxygen-filled blood from the main pumping chamber of the heart passes through this valve to the body. When blocked, it forces your heart to work harder, which can lead to fatigue, chest pain and shortness of breath.
Common symptoms of aortic stenosis
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pressure or pain
- Dizziness or fainting
If these symptoms worsen, it’s time to talk to your doctor. Early diagnosis and monitoring are key.
Geisinger: Expert heart care in Pennsylvania
At Geisinger’s Valve Clinic, you’ll find a team of specialists with advanced training in heart valve disease. We offer:
- Comprehensive evaluations to determine the best treatment path
- Access to the latest therapies, including minimally invasive procedures
- Personalized care plans designed around your lifestyle and health goals
Get started with aortic stenosis care
If you or a loved one may have symptoms of aortic stenosis, don’t wait. Ask your primary care provider for a referral to Geisinger’s Valve Clinic.
TAVR procedure: A minimally invasive option
Geisinger was the first heart program in northeastern and central Pennsylvania to offer Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR ), a groundbreaking, minimally invasive procedure that replaces a damaged valve without open heart surgery.
With TAVR, a new valve is guided through a small catheter inserted in your groin and placed directly into your heart. The benefits include:
- Less trauma and a smaller incision
- Faster recovery and shorter hospital stay
- Excellent outcomes and long-term success
We’ve performed more TAVR procedures than any other medical group in the region, meaning you’re in expert hands.
Now offered for patients with low surgical risk
Thanks to our participation in national clinical trials, Geisinger now offers TAVR to patients at low surgical risk — a group that previously didn’t qualify. This means more people can benefit from this life-saving procedure.
Talk to your doctor about aortic stenosis symptoms
You know your body. Your doctor knows your health.
If you’ve felt more tired than usual, been short of breath during everyday activities or have chest pressure or dizziness, listen to your body. These could be signs of aortic stenosis — a condition that affects how blood flows from your heart to the rest of your body.
Your primary care provider is your first line of defense. They know your medical history, understand your risk factors, and can help determine whether your symptoms may be related to a heart valve issue.
Talking to your primary care provider (PCP) about aortic stenosis
- They know your baseline: Your PCP understands what’s normal for you — and what’s not.
- They guide your next steps: Whether it’s ordering tests or referring you to a specialist, your PCP helps you navigate your care.
- They’re your health advocate: Your doctor wants you to feel better and stay well. Talking to them early can lead to faster diagnosis and better outcomes.
If you have symptoms, here are a few ways to start the conversation:
- “I’ve been feeling unusually short of breath lately. Could it be something with my heart?”
- “I’ve noticed chest pressure when I walk or climb stairs. Should we look into it?”
- “I read about aortic stenosis and some of the symptoms sound familiar. Can we talk about it?”
Next steps
If your doctor agrees that your symptoms may be heart related, they can refer you to Geisinger’s Valve Clinic — where our specialists will evaluate your condition and discuss treatment options, including minimally invasive procedures like TAVR.
Your health journey starts with a conversation. Trust your instincts. Talk to your doctor.
Treatment options
Our heart care team works to find the right treatment for your aortic stenosis, which may include: