Minimally invasive heart valve treatment
Our doctors try to access the heart through arteries, using thin, flexible tubes called catheters. Taking this approach provides an alternative to open-heart surgery, for safer treatment and easier recovery. We can treat a range of heart valve conditions this way, with procedures that include:
- Balloon valvuloplasty: We use this treatment to open thick, narrowed heart valves.
- Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR): Dr. O’Neill performed the country’s first TAVR. Since then, our doctors have worked to find new ways to deliver replacement valves, so more people can benefit. We find the best option for you. Learn more about TAVR.
- Transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVr) or replacement (TMVR): We have extensive experience with a device that clips to the mitral valve for minimally invasive mitral valve repair. We’re also exploring additional repair devices, as well as replacement valves. In fact, we have the most mitral valve clinical trials in Michigan. Learn more about TMVR.
- Transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (TPVR): For some people, minimally invasive treatment can relieve pulmonary stenosis or regurgitation. TPVR is particularly useful if you had replacement surgery and your new valve wears out.
- Transcatheter tricuspid valve repair or replacement: For people who can’t have surgery, our doctors are actively involved in developing techniques to repair or replace the tricuspid valve.