A Lifesaving Option Close to Home: How TAVR Is Changing Heart Care at Bayhealth

For patients with severe aortic stenosis — a narrowing of the heart’s aortic valve that can lead to heart failure — treatment options once were limited to open-heart surgery. But thanks to a minimally invasive procedure known as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), some are getting a second chance with fewer complications and faster recovery.

Bayhealth has offered this advanced procedure for almost a decade. And although some patients still require open-heart surgery, TAVR has been a game changer for hundreds of Bayhealth patients who suffered from the life-altering effects of a damaged aortic valve.

“TAVR allows us to replace a failing heart valve through a small catheter, typically inserted through the groin, rather than surgical incision in the chest,” said Interventional Cardiologist Roberto Scaffidi, MD. “It’s less invasive, highly effective and often results in significant improvement within days.”

Less Invasive, More Accessible

Approved for a wide range of patients — including those at low surgical risk — TAVR is now considered a first-line treatment for many living with aortic stenosis. At Bayhealth, a specialized heart team evaluates each patient individually to determine the best course of care.

“What makes our program unique is the way our entire heart team works together to tailor each treatment plan,” said TAVR Program Coordinator Todd Brandt, PA-C. “It’s truly collaborative medicine with the patient at the center.”

TAVR procedures typically take one to two hours and often do not require general anesthesia. Most patients are sitting up and eating the same day, with many going home within 24 to 48 hours.

“Recovery from TAVR is remarkably quick,” said Bayhealth Chief Cardiothoracic Surgeon and TAVR Program Medical Director Gary Szydlowski, MD, who has seen the program grow firsthand. “We’ve had patients who went from being too breathless to walk across the room to enjoying time with family just days later.”

The impact of TAVR is more than clinical — it’s deeply personal. The team at Bayhealth has seen patients resume hobbies, travels and connections they feared they’d lost. “That’s what this is about — giving people their lives back,” said Dr. Szydlowski. “It’s why we are committed to heart care.”

With advancements continuing in heart valve technology and imaging, Bayhealth’s Structural Heart Program remains at the forefront of innovation in Delaware.

“We’re always looking ahead to what’s next,” said Dr. Scaffidi. “We believe everyone deserves access to the best heart care available, right in their own community.”

Take the First Step

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with aortic stenosis or are experiencing symptoms like chest pain, fatigue or shortness of breath, talk to your doctor or contact Bayhealth’s heart team directly. A simple evaluation could be the first step toward a healthier future.

Visit Bayhealth.org/HVI to learn about the Bayhealth Heart & Vascular Institute's comprehensive approach to aortic stenosis and the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease.