What is TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation)/TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement)?
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) or Transcatheter aortic valve Replacement (TAVR) is a minimally invasive heart procedure to replace a narrowed aortic valve that fails to open properly (aortic valve stenosis). The procedure replaces/implants the aortic valve with a catheter.
Between the left lower heart chamber (left ventricle) and the body's main artery is the aortic valve (aorta). Blood flow from the heart to the body is reduced if the valve does not open properly. TAVI can help persons with severe aortic valve stenosis alleviate their symptoms and enhance their chances of survival.
The TAVI procedure is performed using one of two approaches, allowing the cardiologist or surgeon to choose which one provides the best and safest way to access the valve:
- Entering through the femoral artery (large artery in the groin), called the transfemoral approach, which does not require a surgical incision in the chest, or
- Using a minimally invasive surgical approach with a small incision in the chest and entering through a large artery in the chest or through the tip of the left ventricle (the apex), which is known as the transapical approach.
When is TAVI / TAVR required?
TAVI may be an option for people who are at intermediate or high risk of complications from surgical aortic valve replacement (open-heart surgery). The decision to treat aortic stenosis with TAVI is made after you consult with a team of heart and heart surgery specialists, who work together to determine the best treatment option for you. TAVR patients often spend less time in the hospital than those who get surgical aortic valve replacement.
If you have any of the following conditions, your doctor may consider TAVR:
- Aortic stenosis with severe signs and symptoms.
- A biological tissue aortic valve that isn't functioning properly.
- Another health problem that renders open-heart valve replacement surgery too dangerous, such as lung or kidney disease.
How is TAVI Procedure done?
Step 1
The patient receives sedation or general anesthesia during the TAVI procedure. The surgeon may access your heart through a blood vessel in your leg or through a tiny incision in your chest.
Step 2
A hollow tube (catheter) is inserted through the access point. The surgeon uses advanced imaging techniques to guide the catheter through your blood vessels, to your heart and into your aortic valve.
Step 3
Once the new valve is positioned, a balloon on the catheter's tip is inflated to expand the replacement valve into the appropriate position. When the surgeon is certain the valve is securely in place, the catheter is removed.
What is the Recovery after TAVI Procedure like?
You will spend one or two days in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) after TAVI and around 4-5 days in the hospital room before you are discharged from the hospital. Your doctor may prescribe blood thinners and antibiotics to you, which should be taken without fail.
Cardiac Rehabilitation may be scheduled while you are in the hospital. Many people begin feeling better immediately after their procedure, however it may take weeks before feeling fully recovered.
What Results Can I Expect from TAVI Procedure?
TAVI (transcatheter aortic valve implantation) may enhance your overall health and quality of life by relieving the signs and symptoms of aortic valve stenosis. TAVI can also help people live longer.
It is critical to maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle as you recover and to help prevent further heart problems.
Following TAVR:
- Please don't smoke.
- Consume a healthy diet that is high in fruits and vegetables and low in salt (sodium), saturated fats, and trans fats.
- Regular exercise is important; however, before beginning a new fitness plan, see your doctor.
- Maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI).
