TMVR is typically considered for patients with significant mitral valve dysfunction who may not be suitable candidates for conventional surgical valve replacement or repair. Currently TMVR is not available at the Spire but we hope to establish this service by 2027 and it is available on the NHS at UHS.
Balloon expanding new valve inside old valve
What Conditions Can TMVR Treat?
TMVR may be used to treat:
- Severe mitral regurgitation
- Degenerated surgical mitral valve replacements
- Failed mitral valve repairs
- Complex mitral valve disease in selected patients
The procedure aims to restore effective valve function and improve symptoms caused by impaired blood flow through the heart.
New valve inside old mitral valve
How Does TMVR Work?
A replacement valve is delivered to the heart through a catheter-based system and positioned within the diseased mitral valve.
Once deployed, the new valve takes over the function of regulating blood flow between the left atrium and left ventricle.
The procedure is performed by a multidisciplinary structural heart team using advanced imaging and specialist equipment.
Benefits of TMVR
- Minimally invasive treatment option
- Alternative to open-heart surgery for suitable patients
- Improved blood flow through the heart
- Relief from symptoms such as breathlessness and fatigue
- Potential improvement in quality of life
Assessment and Planning
Careful pre-procedural planning is essential and may involve:
- Echocardiography
- CT scanning
- Cardiac catheterisation
- Multidisciplinary team review
These investigations help determine the safest and most effective treatment approach.
Echo scan post new valve showing wide open new valve in place
Echo scan showing severely narrowed valve orifice in centre
Recovery and Long-Term Care
Following TMVR, patients are monitored closely to ensure the replacement valve is functioning correctly. Regular follow-up appointments and imaging studies help support optimal long-term outcomes and ongoing heart health.
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Please note that with increased demand, and long NHS waits, our services and office are under more demand than ever. As a result our staff are exceptionally busy and often working under great pressure.