Interventional cardiology
TAVI — Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation
A biological aortic valve is implanted by catheter, most often through the femoral artery, without open-heart surgery.
Overview
TAVI treats severe aortic stenosis by placing a new valve inside the diseased native valve. A multidisciplinary heart team evaluates imaging, symptoms, age, surgical risk and life expectancy.
Who may be considered?
Patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis may be considered after echocardiography and CT planning. Suitability is decided individually by the heart team.
How is the procedure performed?
The replacement valve is delivered through a catheter, commonly from the groin, and expanded in the correct position under imaging guidance. General anaesthesia is not always required.
Recovery and follow-up
Patients are monitored for rhythm, vascular and valve-related issues. Mobilisation often begins early, followed by echocardiographic and clinical follow-up.
Risks and safety
Vascular injury, bleeding, stroke, leakage around the valve, kidney injury, need for a pacemaker and emergency surgery are among the possible complications.