Discussions
What is Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) and how does it benefit patients with aortic valve disease?
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat severe aortic stenosis, a condition where the aortic valve narrows, reducing blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. Unlike traditional open-heart surgery, TAVR allows cardiologists to replace the diseased valve using a catheter, typically inserted through a small incision in the groin or chest. The new valve, made from biological tissue mounted on a stent, is guided to the heart and expanded within the damaged valve, restoring proper blood flow.
Why is maternal health important, and what are the key strategies to improve it?
Maternal health refers to the health of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. It is a critical component of public health because a mother’s well-being directly affects the health and survival of her child. Poor maternal health can lead to complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, maternal mortality, and long-term health issues for both mother and child. Globally, improving maternal health is a priority, as preventable complications still cause thousands of deaths each year.