Understanding TAVI: A Minimally Invasive Approach to Treating Aortic Valve Disease

Understanding TAVI: A Minimally Invasive Approach to Treating Aortic Valve Disease

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement or implantation (TAVR or TAVI) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to replace a thickened aortic valve of the heart that has lost the ability to open fully on its own. This condition is medically termed as aortic valve stenosis and occurs when the valve is unable to open fully, resulting in diminished circulation of blood from the heart throughout the body. TAVI or TAVR is performed to insert a new valve in the aortic valve without removing the old, damaged valve.

TAVI or TAVR helps restore normal blood flow from the heart to the body by replacing or implanting a new valve, thus restoring the normal function of the aortic valve and managing symptoms of aortic valve stenosis. TAVI or TAVR may be performed in patients who are at risk of complications if traditional or open-heart aortic valve replacement surgery is carried out. The Department of Cardiology at Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, provides comprehensive, all-round support, including consultation, diagnostics, surgery, and post-surgical rehabilitation services for patients with a wide range of critical and non-critical heart diseases and conditions.

Why is TAVI/TAVR done?

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement or implantation may be performed as a corrective treatment for faulty aortic valve function, specifically to address aortic valve stenosis. Aortic valve stenosis is a condition in which the aortic valve of the heart becomes thickened and calcified, leading to an inability to fully open. This can result in a significant reduction in blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body.

TAVI/TAVR can be considered as an alternative, minimally invasive treatment option to open-heart surgery. This procedure may offer faster recovery and shorter hospital stays compared to those who undergo open-heart surgery.

How does TAVI/TAVR work?

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement or implantation (TAVR/TAVI) for the aortic valve is somewhat similar to stent placement in an artery. During TAVI/TAVR, a fully collapsible replacement valve can be inserted in place of the faulty aortic valve using a catheter. When the catheter is expanded using a balloon, it pushes aside the existing tissues of the valve and positions the replacement tissues, which then take over the job of regulating blood flow.

What are the risks of TAVI/TAVR?

Even though transcatheter aortic valve replacement or implantation is a minimally invasive surgery, there may still be some risks and complications following the procedure. Some of the possible risks of TAVI/TAVR include:

1. Infection
2. Excessive bleeding
3. Kidney disease or kidney failure
4. Blood vessel complications
5. Heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular complications
6. Problems with valve replacement, such as valve slipping or leakage (regurgitation)
7. Heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias) that may require a pacemaker for treatment.

TAVI specialist in Bangalore will closely monitor the patients after the procedure to ensure proper recovery and to watch for signs of complications before being discharged.

What happens during TAVI/TAVR procedure?

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement or implantation involves the replacement of a damaged valve with a biological tissue valve. Since it is a minimally invasive surgery, TAVI may require smaller incisions and the use of a thin, flexible tube called a catheter to provide visibility inside the heart and guide the surgeon.

During TAVI/TAVR, imaging devices such as moving X-rays or echocardiogram pictures may assist in guiding the catheter to the precise location of the damage. At the site of the faulty aortic valve, a balloon on the tip of the catheter may be inflated to position the replacement valve. Throughout the entire procedure, the patient’s vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing, will be constantly monitored by TAVI Doctor in Bangalore.

Who is a good candidate for TAVI/TAVR?

TAVI/TAVR may be recommended for patients who are at risk of developing fatal complications from traditional open-heart surgery. However, there are other situations when it may be recommended to patients, including:

• Severe symptoms of aortic valve stenosis.
• Poor functioning of a previously replaced biological tissue valve.
• Presence of comorbidities such as kidney or lung problems, which make open-heart surgery risky for the patient.

Recovery after TAVI/TAVR

TAVI/TAVR can help relieve symptoms of aortic valve stenosis, leading to an improvement in overall quality of life. However, patients undergoing TAVI may require constant monitoring in the intensive care unit to prevent any potential complications. It may take approximately 1-2 weeks to recover from the procedure, but full recovery may take longer. Cardiologists may recommend special medications such as blood thinners and antibiotics. Regular follow-up will be necessary to ensure the proper functioning of the replaced valve.

Treatment at Best TAVI Surgery Hospital in Bangalore

Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, is a renowned center of excellence for Cardiology and its sub-disciplines. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality of consultation, diagnostics, treatment, and patient care services, with a special focus on rehabilitation for a holistic management of various cardiac diseases and disorders.

At Apollo Hospitals, also known as the Top TAVI Surgery Hospital in Bangalore, we utilize state-of-the-art, advanced surgical and diagnostic equipment to diagnose and treat a wide range of heart conditions. Our aim is to provide minimally invasive, pain-free treatments, such as TAVI surgery in Bangalore, to minimize risks and facilitate a proper institutionalized recovery, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for our patients. Looking for Best Aortic Valve Replacement Doctor in Bangalore? Call us now.