Understanding TAVI – Minimally Invasive Heart Valve Replacement Procedure 

What is TAVI?

TAVI is a minimally invasive procedure used to replace a diseased aortic valve in patients suffering from aortic stenosis. Aortic stenosis occurs when the aortic valve — one of the main valves in the heart — becomes narrowed and prevents blood from flowing properly from the heart to the rest of the body.

In the past, the only way to treat aortic stenosis was through open-heart surgery to replace the valve. However, many patients, especially older adults or those with other health issues, may not be suitable candidates for this major surgery. That’s where TAVI comes in as a life-saving alternative.

How Does TAVI Work?

Instead of opening the chest to replace the valve, TAVI is performed through small incisions. A new valve is delivered to the heart using a catheter — a thin, flexible tube — usually inserted through an artery in the leg (the femoral artery). This catheter is carefully guided to the heart, and once in position, the new valve is expanded to replace the old, diseased valve.

The best part? TAVI is often performed while the heart is still beating, and recovery times are much faster compared to traditional surgery.

Who Can Benefit from TAVI?

In India, heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death, and aortic stenosis is becoming more common, especially in the elderly population. However, it’s not just limited to older adults. I’ve seen younger patients with congenital valve issues or early onset of aortic stenosis due to factors like rheumatic heart disease—a condition more common in India than in many other parts of the world.

TAVI is especially beneficial for:

• Older patients: For those in their 70s or 80s who may not have the physical strength to withstand open-heart surgery.
• Patients with other health issues: If you have conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or lung problems, traditional surgery may carry too many risks. TAVI offers a safer alternative.
• Patients who have had previous heart surgery: If you’ve already had open-heart surgery, TAVI can avoid the need for another high-risk procedure.

Recovery and Benefits of TAVI

One of the reasons I often recommend TAVI to eligible patients is its faster recovery time. Typically, after open-heart surgery, patients spend weeks in recovery and rehabilitation. With TAVI, many patients are able to get back on their feet within days, and the hospital stay is usually much shorter.

The risk of complications, like infection or excessive bleeding, is also lower with TAVI, which makes it ideal for patients who are frail or have other health concerns.

The Indian Context: Why TAVI is Gaining Popularity

In India, we are seeing a growing demand for procedures like TAVI because of our aging population and the increasing incidence of heart valve diseases. Traditionally, many patients would have no option but to live with the symptoms of severe aortic stenosis because they were not fit for surgery. Now, with TAVI, we can offer them a new lease on life, allowing them to live healthier, more active lives.

Additionally, with advancements in medical technology and increased awareness, more hospitals across India, including Marengo Asia CIMS Hospital in Ahmedabad, are equipped to perform TAVI successfully.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with aortic stenosis and have concerns about undergoing traditional open-heart surgery, I encourage you to explore whether TAVI could be the right option. At Marengo Asia CIMS, we’ve seen incredible results with TAVI, offering patients not just a longer life but a better quality of life.

As a cardiologist, it is my mission to ensure that every patient has access to the best possible care, and TAVI is one of the revolutionary procedures helping us do just that. If you have questions or would like to learn more about whether TAVI is right for you, feel free to reach out to us.

Stay heart-healthy,
Dr. Milan Chag
Cardiologist, Marengo Asia CIMS Hospital, Ahmedabad