Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)

Minimally Invasive Aortic Valve Repair in Vista, Oceanside & Carlsbad

At Tri-City Cardiology and Arrhythmia Services, we specialize in advanced, minimally invasive heart procedures — including Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR). This innovative procedure is designed for patients with severe aortic stenosis, offering a non-surgical solution with faster recovery and life-changing results.

Serving patients across Vista, Oceanside, Carlsbad, and greater North County San Diego, our expert team is led by Dr. Aaron Yung, a board-certified interventional cardiologist trained in structural heart interventions.

What Is TAVR?

TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure that replaces a diseased aortic valve without open-heart surgery. It is most commonly used to treat aortic stenosis, a condition in which the aortic valve becomes narrowed and restricts blood flow from the heart to the body.

Instead of opening the chest, TAVR uses a catheter inserted through a small incision — usually in the groin — to guide a new valve into place. Once deployed, the new valve pushes the old, damaged valve aside and takes over its function.

Who Is a Candidate for TAVR?

At Tri-City Cardiology, we evaluate each patient carefully to determine whether TAVR is the best treatment option based on health status, anatomy, and surgical risk.

TAVR is often recommended for patients who:
    •    Have been diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis
    •    Are considered high or intermediate risk for open-heart surgery
    •    Are experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, or dizziness
    •    Have been advised by their cardiologist that a less invasive procedure is preferred

Benefits of TAVR
    •    Minimally Invasive: No need for open-heart surgery
    •    Shorter Recovery Time: Most patients return home within a few days
    •    Improved Quality of Life: Symptom relief often begins within days
    •    Lower Surgical Risk: Ideal for patients with additional health concerns
    •    Performed Locally: Access expert care close to home in Oceanside, Vista, and Carlsbad

What to Expect

Consultation and Evaluation: Our team will perform diagnostic testing, imaging, and risk assessments to ensure you are a good candidate for TAVR.
Procedure Day: TAVR is typically performed in a hospital setting under sedation. The new valve is guided through a catheter to your heart and placed within the existing valve.
Recovery: Most patients stay 1–2 days in the hospital and are up and walking the next day. Recovery at home is generally quick and well tolerated.
Follow-Up Care: We monitor your progress with follow-up visits and echocardiograms to ensure your new valve is functioning properly.

Why Choose Tri-City Cardiology for TAVR in North County San Diego?

Experienced TAVR Team: Led by Dr. Aaron Yung, with advanced fellowship training in interventional cardiology and structural heart procedures.
    •    Local Access to World-Class Care: No need to travel far — our patients receive TAVR evaluations and follow-up care close to home in Vista, Oceanside, and Carlsbad.
    •    Collaborative Approach: We work closely with your primary care physician and other specialists to ensure seamless, coordinated care.
    •    Proven Outcomes: TAVR has been shown to reduce mortality, improve heart function, and enhance quality of life — especially for patients previously considered inoperable.