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Structural Heart Program

Baxter Health Structural Heart Program

To be considered for the Structural Heart Program, you must be referred by your primary care provider. Please talk with your provider to discuss referrals. For more info, please contact the Structural Heart Program Coordinator at (870) 508-3209.

What is the Baxter Health Structural Heart Program?

The Baxter Health Structural Heart Program treats diseases pertaining to the heart's major structure including the walls, valves and chambers. This includes treatments such as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) and Left Atrial Appendage Closure (Watchman™).

What is TAVR?

TAVR or Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement is a minimally invasive heart procedure that replaces diseased aortic valves that are unable to open fully. The new, man-made valve is inserted into the old valve instead of surgically removing it which allows for quicker recovery time. This procedure will assist in restoring blood flow and reducing symptoms of aortic valve stenosis: fatigue, fainting or dizziness, chest pain and shortness of breath.

What You Need to Know

  • Aortic Valve Replacement (AVR) is the only treatment for severe aortic stenosis that improves quality of life and survival.
  • Up to 2/3 of patients eligible for AVR are only treated medically.
  • With medical treatment alone, risk of death from severe aortic stenosis rises dramatically - 50% mortality in the first two years.
  • National recommendations include multidisciplinary evaluation for the best therapeutic option (surgical AVR, trans-catheter AVR).

Signs and Symptoms of Aortic Valve Stenosis

Contact your primary care provider if you are having the following symptoms:

  • Heart Murmur
  • Chest Pain
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness or Fainting
  • Shortness of breath with activity
  • Palpitations

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911 immediately.

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