Robotic Aortic Valve Replacement (RAVR)
At WVU Medicine Heart and Vascular Institute, our team pioneered the right lateral transaxillary robotic aortic valve replacement (RAVR), a minimally invasive option for treating aortic valve disease. Since January 2020, we’ve performed this advanced procedure on more than 350 patients, helping them recover faster with less pain and excellent outcomes.
Today, we continue to lead the way in expanding access to robotic aortic valve replacement.
The WVU Heart and Vascular Institute is at the forefront of cardiac surgery innovation, introducing Robotic Aortic Valve Replacement (RAVR), a minimally invasive approach to treatment of aortic valve disease. As the pioneering center to offer this advanced technique, our team is setting new standards in cardiac surgery care. Today, RAVR is rapidly gaining worldwide recognition for improving patient outcomes and enhancing recovery time.
What is Robotic Aortic Valve Replacement (RAVR)?
Robotic Aortic Valve Replacement (RAVR) is a minimally invasive, robotic-assisted heart surgery used to treat aortic valve disease. Instead of opening the chest, surgeons replace the diseased aortic valve through a small incision, about 3 cm, between the ribs on the right side of the chest. Advanced robotic technology allows for greater precision and control during surgery.
RAVR can also be used to treat other heart conditions, including mitral valve disease, tricuspid valve disease, and certain heart rhythm disorders, through the same small incision.
Unlike traditional open-heart surgery, RAVR avoids a sternotomy, or cutting through the breastbone. As a result, patients may experience:
- Shorter hospital stays
- Faster recovery times
- Less pain
- A quicker return to normal activities
- Reduced risk of complications
This minimally invasive approach can be especially beneficial for patients who may not be ideal candidates for conventional open-heart surgery due to age, anatomy, or other health conditions.
Is Robotic Aortic Valve Replacement (RAVR) Right for You?
Our multidisciplinary heart team will work closely with you to determine the best treatment plan based on your individual needs. If you have been diagnosed with aortic valve disease and are exploring treatment options, robotic aortic valve replacement may offer a minimally invasive approach with a shorter recovery time.
Why Choose WVU Medicine Heart and Vascular Institute?
- Comprehensive, patient-centered heart care
- Leaders in robotic aortic valve replacement and minimally invasive heart surgery
- Nationally recognized cardiac surgery team
- Advanced robotic technology for precision and improved outcomes
Patient Resources
Sean's Story
After struggling with worsening heart valve issues, Sean turned to the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute for a groundbreaking solution. Watch as he shares his experience undergoing the world’s first robotic aortic valve reconstruction combined with mitral valve repair, and how expert, patient-centered care helped him return to the life he loves.
How Robotic Cardiac Surgery Works
Discover how robotic cardiac surgery is performed and why it’s transforming heart care. In this video, Dr. Vinay Badhwar explains how minimally invasive robotic technology allows surgeons to repair heart valves with precision, smaller incisions, and improved outcomes.
What to Expect During Recovery After Robotic Heart Surgery
This video introduces the fundamentals of robotic aortic valve repair, offering an in-depth look at the procedure, surgical approach, and patient selection. Vinay Badhwar, MD highlights key considerations and techniques for optimal outcomes.
Physician Resources
A Global Leader in Robotic Heart Surgery
The WVU Heart and Vascular Institute is internationally recognized for its leadership in robotic cardiac surgery and innovation in robotic aortic valve replacement. In January 2020, our surgical team performed the world’s first RAVR, establishing a new standard in minimally invasive heart surgery.
Building on this experience, WVU Medicine hosts the annual International Symposium on Robotic Aortic Valve Surgery each September. This peer-focused program brings together cardiothoracic surgeons and heart specialists from around the world to share surgical techniques, clinical insights, and advances in robotic heart surgery.
To learn more about the symposium or participation opportunities, contact the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute.
For Referring Providers:
This video series is a peer-focused educational channel by Dr. Vinay Badhwar, MD, designed specifically for healthcare professionals. It highlights advances in cardiothoracic robotic surgery, surgical techniques, and clinical decision-making, providing valuable insights to support patient referrals and collaborative care.
Introduction to Robotic Aortic Valve Repair (RAVR)
This video introduces the fundamentals of robotic aortic valve repair, offering an in-depth look at the procedure, surgical approach, and patient selection. Vinay Badhwar, MD highlights key considerations and techniques for optimal outcomes.
Advanced Robotic Aortic Valve Repair (RAVR)
Delve into advanced techniques in robotic aortic valve repair with this video focused on complex cases, nuanced surgical strategies, and clinical decision-making. Vinay Badhwar, MD discusses innovations that enhance precision and patient outcomes.