What is transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI)?
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a procedure to implant a replacement aortic valve in the heart. It is also called transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). It is done to treat aortic valve stenosis. In aortic valve stenosis, the valve between your heart and the large blood vessel that carries blood to the body (aorta) has narrowed. That forces the heart to pump harder to get enough blood through the valve. TAVI can help some people feel better and live longer.
In TAVI, the doctor uses a thin, flexible tube called a catheter to put in the new heart valve. TAVI is not an open-heart surgery.
Why is transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) done?
TAVI is done to treat narrowing (stenosis) of the aortic valve. This is the valve between your heart and the blood vessel (the aorta) that carries blood to your body. TAVI may also be done to place a new valve in an existing tissue replacement valve.
How is transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) done?
TAVI is typically done through an incision (cut) in the groin. But sometimes a small cut is made in the chest. The doctor uses a tube called a catheter and special tools that fit inside the catheter. The doctor puts the catheter into a blood vessel and moves it through the blood vessel and into the heart. A specially designed replacement valve fits inside the catheter. This valve is made of tissue and metal. The doctor then moves the new valve into the damaged aortic valve. The new valve expands and works as your new aortic valve.
You may be asleep for the procedure. Or you may get medicine that relaxes you or puts you in a light sleep. You won't feel pain when the catheter is put in the blood vessel. You may stay in the hospital for up to a few days after the procedure.
After transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI): When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
- You have symptoms of a stroke. These may include:
- Sudden numbness, tingling, weakness, or loss of movement in your face, arm, or leg, especially on only one side of your body.
- Sudden vision changes.
- Sudden trouble speaking.
- Sudden confusion or trouble understanding simple statements.
- Sudden problems with walking or balance.
- A sudden, severe headache that is different from past headaches.
- You have symptoms of a heart attack. These may include:
- Chest pain or pressure, or a strange feeling in the chest.
- Sweating.
- Shortness of breath.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Pain, pressure, or a strange feeling in the back, neck, jaw, or upper belly or in one or both shoulders or arms.
- A fast or irregular heartbeat.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You are bleeding from the area where the catheter was put in your artery.
- You have a fast-growing, painful lump at the catheter site.
- You have signs of infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- Red streaks leading from the catheter site.
- Pus draining from the catheter site.
- A fever.
- Your leg is painful, looks blue, or feels cold, numb, or tingly.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.
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