TAVI: Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is now an established treatment option for patients with severe aortic valve stenosis. This technique allows valve replacement without surgical incision, offering a safe alternative with a short hospital stay.
What Is the TAVI Procedure?
The TAVI technique was pioneered in 2002 by Alain Cribier and has since evolved dramatically. With advances in technology and the growing expertise of interventional cardiologists, the procedure has become simpler and safer.
The choice of approach (TAVI or surgical replacement) is guided by international clinical guidelines, taking into account the patient's age, surgical risk, and anatomical characteristics.
According to the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), TAVI is the recommended approach for patients over 75 years of age or for those at elevated risk for open-heart surgery. In all cases, the final decision is made by the Heart Team, ensuring the most appropriate treatment pathway for each individual patient.
Aortic Valve Stenosis
The aortic valve connects the left ventricle of the heart to the aorta. Over time, aortic valve stenosis may develop, typically due to degenerative calcific disease, rheumatic fever, or a congenital bicuspid valve.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Patients with stenosis commonly present with:
- Dyspnea (shortness of breath)
- Angina (chest pain)
- Syncope (fainting episodes)
Diagnosis is confirmed through medical history, clinical examination, electrocardiogram, and cardiac echocardiography (Triplex).
Preparation and Procedure
Prior to transcatheter valve replacement, a thorough workup is performed, including:
- Coronary angiography: To identify any coronary artery disease
- CT angiography: For precise procedural planning and selection of the appropriate valve
During the TAVI Procedure
The procedure is performed in the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory by a specialized team of Interventional Cardiologists under anesthesiological monitoring.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with conscious sedation
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours
- Valve types: Latest-generation biological valves are implanted, either self-expanding or balloon-expandable, including the Sapien 3 (Edwards), Evolut R (Medtronic), and Navitor (Abbott)
Hospital Stay and Recovery
Following completion of the transcatheter aortic valve implantation, the patient is monitored in a cardiology ward.
- . Mobilization: The patient is able to get up and walk as early as the following day
- Discharge: Typically on the 3rd or 4th day, following the necessary post-procedural evaluation (blood tests, ECG, echocardiography)
Questions or Ready to Book an Appointment?
If you have further questions about the TAVI procedure and aortic valve stenosis, you can visit the FAQ page where you will find the most common questions, or schedule a visit to the practice for a personalized clinical assessment here.