Women live longer after TAVR than men

April 30, 2026 - 17:21

A new analysis of real-world patient data suggests that women tend to live longer than men after undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement, or TAVR. Researchers followed roughly 600 patients who received the minimally invasive heart procedure, tracking their health outcomes for an average of five years.

In the first few years after surgery, survival rates between men and women were nearly identical. However, the picture shifted noticeably after the three-year mark. Women began to show a clear survival advantage, with better long-term outcomes compared to their male counterparts.

The study relied on real-world clinical data rather than controlled trial conditions, giving doctors a more practical look at how patients fare over time. While the reasons for the gender gap are not yet fully understood, the findings add to a growing body of evidence that biological sex plays a role in recovery from heart procedures.

TAVR is commonly used to treat aortic stenosis, a narrowing of the heart's main valve that can lead to serious complications if left untreated. The procedure has become a standard alternative to open-heart surgery, especially for older patients or those with other health issues.

Researchers say the results highlight the need for sex-specific analysis in future heart studies. Understanding why women live longer after TAVR could help doctors tailor follow-up care and improve outcomes for all patients.