TAVI (transcatheter aortic valve implantation)
What is TAVI?
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) , which is known as transcatheter aortic valve replacement or TAVR in the USA, is a modern innovative surgical technique to replace the aortic valve. The aortic valve opens when the heart pumps blood, but if it cannot open or close properly the heart is put under strain. For patients who cannot undergo open-heart surgery, TAVI allows surgeons to implant a specially designed aortic valve using a catheter (a long, narrow tube), which is inserted via a large blood vessel (often in the groin).
Why is TAVI performed?
The aortic valve, one of four valves in our heart, plays the role of connecting the left ventricle with the aortic artery, the main article in the human body. When the valve has anomalies in its functioning, the blood returns towards the ventricle and produces in the long-term aortic valve disease. Aortic valve disease includes aortic stenosis (restricted blood flow caused by a narrowing of the valve) and aortic regurgitation (blood leaks back through the valve into the heart). Both of these can ultimately lead to heart failure.
TAVI is particularly suitable for patients who would be too weak to undergo open-heart surgery, such as the elderly or those with additional health concerns, such as liver disease or chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD).
What is TAVI?
TAVI is performed percutaneously, i.e. the new valve is positioned through the use of a catheter which is introduced from one of the main arteries, usually the femoral artery in the thigh. Once the correct position is reached, the new valve begins to expand, and after this the catheter is removed. Using an X-ray, the specialist is able to precisely position and expand the new valve through the catheter.
Preparation for surgery
Before carrying out the operation it is advisable to consult your specialist about any medications that may need to be halted for a time period. Generally all anticoagulant-based therapies will have to be suspended and the intake of salt and liquids reduced in the days prior to the procedure.


TAVI: heart surgery for aortic valve replacement
By Mr Inderpaul Birdi
2021-02-24
TAVI is an alternative procedure for those who are not well enough for traditional open-heart surgery that is used to treat aortic valve replacement. Read more from one of our top cardiothoracic surgeons Mr Inderpaul Birdi on the procedure and its success rate. See more


Heart health: TAVI vs. AVR – Part 2
By Mr Neil Roberts
2021-02-22
When aortic stenosis threatens the heart, two treatment options are TAVI and AVR. In the second part of this article, top cardiothoracic surgeon Mr Neil Roberts lays out the advantages and disadvantages of these procedures and explains when each would be recommended. See more


Heart health: TAVI vs. AVR – Part 1
By Mr Neil Roberts
2021-02-21
Our hearts are responsible for keeping us alive. However, there are a myriad of problems that can impact our heart health, one of which is aortic stenosis. More common in elderly patients, this condition can be fatal if left untreated. There are two surgical options to treat this problem: TAVI and AVR. In this two-part article, leading cardiothoracic surgeon Mr Neil Roberts explains these procedures and the pros and cons of each. But first, what exactly is aortic stenosis? See more


Which patients is TAVI suitable for?
By Dr Michael Mullen
2021-02-20
TAVI stands for transcatheter aortic valve implantation, a minimally invasive catheter-based procedure for patients with aortic stenosis. Aortic stenosis is a heart defect characterised by the narrowing of the aortic valve, which can cause chest pain (angina), dizziness, palpitations, breathlessness and loss of consciousness. Cardiologist Dr Michael Mullen tells us all about TAVI, the possible risks faced with the operation and the road to recovery. See more
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London Cardiovascular Clinic
London Cardiovascular Clinic
66 Harley Street, London, W1G 7HD
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One Heart Clinic - Cardiology Consulting & Diagnostic Centre
One Heart Clinic - Cardiology Consulting & Diagnostic Centre
68 Harley Street, Marylebone, W1G 7HE
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London Cardiovascular Clinic
66 Harley Street, London, W1G 7HD, W1G Marylebone LondonExpert in:
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One Heart Clinic - Cardiology Consulting & Diagnostic Centre
68 Harley Street, Marylebone, W1G 7HE, W1G Marylebone LondonExpert in:
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