Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI)

What is Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI)?

Catheter-based Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVI) is a minimally invasive procedure for patients with aortic valve stenosis. This method was developed as an alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement. The new valve is placed through the heart vessels using a catheter, improving the quality of life of patients and accelerating the healing process. In parallel with the development of technology, the valve and placement system used is becoming easier to apply every year. Today, it is applied to more than 10,000 patients per year worldwide.

What is TAVI?

TAVI is formed by the initials of the English words "Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation". It is known as "Aortic Valve Placement via Catheter" in Turkish. This procedure is a revolutionary innovation in heart surgery and is an important treatment option for high-risk patients or those who are not suitable for open-heart surgery. TAVI, which was developed as a new treatment method for patients with advanced age due to wear and tear, and for patients who are at risk due to other accompanying diseases and who are considered high-risk for open-heart surgery, has been used all over the world since 2005.

What is the Recovery Process Like After TAVI Surgery?

The recovery process after TAVI surgery is quite fast compared to traditional surgical methods. Patients are usually discharged within a few days and can return to their daily activities more quickly. Regular doctor check-ups and use of prescribed medications are important in the post-operative period. In addition, patients' attention to their nutrition and exercise programs positively affect the recovery process. With the development of technology, TAVI procedures are completed with fewer complications and patients have a faster recovery process.

What are the advantages of TAVI over traditional aortic valve replacement surgery?

TAVI has many advantages over traditional aortic valve replacement. One of the most important advantages is that it does not require open heart surgery and therefore the risks of surgery are lower. In addition, the TAVI method is usually completed in a shorter time and patients have a shorter hospital stay. The recovery process is also faster and patients can return to their daily lives quickly. There are two valves most commonly used in the world via catheter, and the structure of these valves is similar to surgically placed bioprosthetic valves.

Who is TAVI Suitable For?

TAVI is generally appropriate for patients who are at high risk for open-heart surgery or who are not suitable for this surgery. Elderly patients and those with serious health problems are particularly good candidates for TAVI. However, each patient requires a detailed evaluation to determine if it is a good fit. This evaluation is based on the patient's general health, heart valve structure, and other medical factors.

Is Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVI) Safe?

TAVI is a procedure that has been proven to be reliable with many clinical studies and applications. However, as with any surgical intervention, TAVI also carries some risks. These risks may vary depending on the patient's general health status and the experience of the center where the procedure is performed. It is important for patients to talk to their doctors in detail before the procedure and understand the risks. TAVI is performed in the catheterization laboratory by interventional cardiology, cardiovascular surgery, echocardiography and anesthesiology teams working together. The most important principle is for the teams to work together.

How is TAVI Surgery Performed?

TAVI surgery is usually performed by inserting a catheter from the groin area. The catheter is advanced through the heart vessels to the aortic valve area and the new valve is placed on the existing valve. This procedure is performed using an imaging method called fluoroscopy. Since the surgery is a minimally invasive procedure, it is completed without opening the patient's rib cage. While the patient is under anesthesia, the procedure is usually performed from the groin area. The heart is reached through the aorta (carotid artery) and the calcified aortic valve is expanded with a balloon and then a biological tissue prosthetic valve is placed. The entire procedure is monitored with echocardiography from the esophagus. In this way, precise measurements can be made.

How Long Does Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) Surgery Take?

TAVI surgery usually takes between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the patient’s condition and the difficulty of the procedure. However, this time can be shorter or longer in some cases. The duration of the surgery also depends on the patient’s general health and the surgeon’s experience. In addition, with the advancement of technology, surgery times are becoming shorter and procedures are becoming safer.

Is TAVI Surgery Performed Under General Anesthesia?

TAVI surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. However, in some cases, local anesthesia or sedation may also be preferred. The anesthesia method used depends on the patient's general health and the preference of the team that will perform the surgery. The anesthesia team determines the most appropriate method for the patient to complete the surgery in the most comfortable and safe way.

Is Hospitalization Required After TAVI Surgery?

The length of stay in hospital after TAVI surgery is usually a few days. This period may vary depending on the patient's general health and whether there are any post-operative complications. It is important for patients to stay in hospital for close monitoring and necessary care in the post-operative period.

Is TAVI Surgery Suitable for Everyone?

TAVI surgery is particularly suitable for patients who are at high risk for open heart surgery or who are not suitable for this surgery. However, a detailed evaluation is required for each patient to determine whether it is suitable. This evaluation is based on the patient's general health, heart valve structure and other medical factors.