TAVI: Treating Aortic Valve Narrowing Without Open Surgery
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation, usually shortened to TAVI (or TAVR), is a procedure to replace a narrowed aortic valve without opening the chest. A replacement valve is guided to the heart through a catheter, most often via an artery in the groin, and positioned within the diseased valve.
The problem TAVI addresses
The aortic valve controls blood leaving the heart to the rest of the body. With age it can become thickened and calcified, narrowing the opening — a condition called aortic stenosis. The heart must then work considerably harder.
Symptoms typically include breathlessness on exertion, chest tightness, dizziness or fainting, and fatigue. Once severe aortic stenosis becomes symptomatic, treatment is important, as the condition tends to progress.
How TAVI is performed
A catheter carrying a collapsed replacement valve is guided to the heart, usually through the femoral artery in the groin. Under imaging guidance, the new valve is positioned within the old one and expanded, pushing the diseased leaflets aside and taking over their function.
The procedure is often performed under sedation rather than general anaesthesia. Hospital stay is generally shorter than after open surgery, though this varies with individual circumstances.
Who it may suit
TAVI was initially used for patients considered high risk for conventional surgery. Its use has since broadened, and the decision now weighs age, anatomy, other medical conditions, valve durability considerations and patient preference.
The choice between TAVI and surgical valve replacement is made by a heart team — typically cardiologists and cardiac surgeons together — rather than by any single clinician.
Recovery and follow-up
Many people mobilise soon after the procedure and notice improvement in breathlessness over the following weeks. Medication, including anti-clotting treatment, is prescribed according to individual circumstances.
Lifelong follow-up with echocardiography is standard, to monitor how the valve is functioning over time.
Frequently asked questions
Is TAVI open-heart surgery?
No. It is performed through a catheter, most often via an artery in the groin, and does not involve opening the chest or stopping the heart.
How long does a TAVI valve last?
Long-term durability data continues to accumulate. Your heart team will discuss expected durability alongside your age and circumstances.
Who decides between TAVI and surgery?
A multidisciplinary heart team, considering anatomy, risk, age, other conditions and patient preference.
What symptoms suggest aortic stenosis?
Breathlessness on exertion, chest tightness, dizziness or fainting, and reduced exercise tolerance. A heart murmur is often detected on examination.
Have a question about your heart health?
Consultations with Dr. Ray are held at Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, Kolkata.
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