Percutaneous aortic valve replacement

In percutaneous aortic valve replacement (PAVR), a synthetic valve is transported to the heart through a small hole made in groin. This procedure can be compared to that performed when placing a stent, or performing balloon angioplasty.

Aortic valve replacement is an invasive procedure, with considerable mortality and morbidity, especially in more fragile patients. As of 2005, trials are being performed in which the dysfunctional aortic valve is replaced percutaneously, which removes the need for open heart surgery.

As of late 2006, this procedure is experimental, but initial results are encouraging.