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Overview

TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation), also known as TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement), is a minimally invasive procedure to replace a diseased aortic valve without open-heart surgery. It is most commonly used for patients with severe aortic stenosis (narrowing of the aortic valve) who are at high or intermediate risk for traditional valve replacement.

What is TAVI/TAVR, and why is it done?

TAVI/TAVR is a catheter-based procedure where a new valve is inserted into the heart through a blood vessel, usually via the femoral artery in the groin. It is done to treat severe aortic stenosis, a condition that restricts blood flow from the heart and can cause chest pain, breathlessness, fainting, or heart failure.

Who is eligible for TAVI/TAVR?

TAVI/TAVR may be recommended for:

  • Patients with severe, symptomatic aortic stenosis
  • Those considered high-risk or unsuitable for open-heart surgery
  • Elderly patients with multiple health conditions
  • Increasingly, even some intermediate- and low-risk patients after evaluation

A cardiology team decides eligibility after comprehensive testing (echocardiogram, CT scan, angiography).

How is the TAVI/TAVR procedure performed?
  • A catheter is inserted through the femoral artery (groin) or sometimes through the chest.
  • The replacement valve, compressed inside the catheter, is guided to the diseased aortic valve.
  • Once in place, it expands and pushes aside the old valve, allowing normal blood flow.

The procedure typically takes 1–2 hours and does not require opening the chest.

Is TAVI/TAVR safer than open-heart surgery?

Yes. TAVI/TAVR is less invasive and generally safer for older patients or those with high surgical risk. It avoids large chest incisions and long recovery times. However, for younger and low-risk patients, open surgery may still be preferred for long-term durability.

What are the risks of TAVI/TAVR?

While generally safe, potential risks include:

  • Stroke
  • Bleeding or vascular injury
  • Valve leakage (paravalvular leak)
  • Need for a permanent pacemaker
  • Kidney complications

These risks are carefully assessed before recommending the procedure.

What is recovery like after TAVI/TAVR?

Recovery is usually much quicker than open-heart surgery. Most patients are discharged within 2–5 days, resume light activities within a week, and regain full strength in a few weeks.

How long does a TAVI/TAVR valve last?

Studies suggest that TAVI/TAVR valves are durable for at least 10–15 years. For elderly patients, this is often sufficient. For younger patients, long-term durability is still being studied.

What is the success rate of TAVI/TAVR?

TAVI/TAVR has high success rates, with most patients experiencing immediate improvement in symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue, and chest pain. Survival and quality of life are significantly improved after the procedure.

Call to Action

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis, our Cardiology & Structural Heart Team offers advanced TAVI/TAVR procedures for safe and effective valve replacement without open-heart surgery.

📞 Call us or book an Appointment Online to discuss your treatment options.

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