Overview
TMVR replaces a diseased mitral valve using a catheter. It is most often used as a 'valve-in-valve' procedure, where a new valve is placed inside a surgically implanted tissue valve or ring that has worn out.
For patients who have already had open-heart surgery, TMVR can avoid the risks of a second operation.
Who may need it
- Degeneration of a previously implanted surgical mitral valve or ring
- Selected patients with severe mitral valve disease who are high risk for surgery
What to expect
- Usually performed through a vein in the leg, crossing into the left side of the heart.
- The new valve is positioned with X-ray and echo guidance and expanded in place.
Recovery & aftercare
- Hospital stay is usually a few days, with regular echo follow-up.



