Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) Procedure

Introduction

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI), also known as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), is a minimally invasive procedure used to replace a diseased aortic valve in patients with severe aortic stenosis. This technique is particularly beneficial for patients who are considered high-risk for open-heart surgery.

What is Aortic Stenosis?

Aortic stenosis is a condition where the aortic valve becomes narrowed, reducing blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. This leads to symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fatigue. Over time, untreated aortic stenosis can lead to heart failure and even death.

Who is a Candidate for TAVI?

TAVI is typically recommended for patients who: - Have severe aortic stenosis. - Are at intermediate or high surgical risk for open-heart valve replacement. - Are older adults or have multiple medical comorbidities.

How is the TAVI Procedure Performed?

TAVI is performed through a catheter-based technique, avoiding the need for open-heart surgery. The steps include: 1. Accessing the Artery: A small incision is made, usually in the groin (femoral artery) or sometimes through the chest. 2. Guiding the Valve: A catheter is inserted into the artery and guided to the heart. 3. Deploying the Valve: A new artificial valve is placed inside the narrowed aortic valve, pushing the diseased valve leaflets aside. 4. Final Assessment: The new valve is positioned correctly and begins functioning immediately.

Recovery and Benefits

Patients typically experience: - Shorter hospital stays (3-5 days). - Faster recovery times compared to traditional surgery. - Significant improvement in heart function and quality of life.

Risks and Considerations

Although TAVI is less invasive, it carries some risks, including: - Bleeding or vascular complications. - Stroke. - Valve leakage. - Pacemaker requirement after the procedure.

Conclusion

TAVI has transformed the treatment of severe aortic stenosis, offering a life-saving alternative for patients who are not candidates for open-heart surgery. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with aortic stenosis, consulting with a cardiologist is essential to determine the best treatment approach.

Source recommendations

1. American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) Guidelines on Valvular Heart Disease

1. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000923
2. https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2020/12/16/21/58/2020-ACC-AHA-VHD-GL-Pt-1-GL-VHD
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33332149/
4. https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2024/03/13/18/13/2024-acc-aha-clinical-performance-valvular
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33342586/

2. European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Guidelines on Valvular Heart Disease

1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Valvular-Heart-Disease-Guidelines
2. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/7/561/6358470
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34453165/
4. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/38/36/2739/4095039
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17259184/