Introduction to TAVI

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI), also known as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), is a revolutionary procedure for patients with severe aortic stenosis who are at high risk for conventional surgical valve replacement. The aortic valve plays a critical role in heart function by controlling blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. Aortic stenosis occurs when the valve narrows, restricting blood flow and leading to serious complications. TAVI is designed to alleviate this condition through a minimally invasive approach, enabling quicker recovery and preserving quality of life.

At Livasa Hospitals in Mohali, we offer a comprehensive TAVI program staffed by experienced heart specialists who are dedicated to providing advanced cardiac care. The advent of TAVI has shown promising results in improving patients' heart functions with a shorter recovery time compared to traditional measures. This blog aims to provide in-depth insights into the TAVI procedure, including its benefits, risks, and the process followed at our hospital.

What is the TAVI Procedure?

The TAVI procedure replaces the diseased aortic valve without the need for open-heart surgery. Instead of making a large incision in the chest, the catheter is typically inserted through a small incision, often in the groin, and guided to the heart. The procedure involves the following key steps:

• Preparation: Patients undergo thorough evaluations, including imaging tests and cardiac examinations, to determine candidacy for TAVI.
• Anesthesia: The procedure is performed using general anesthesia or conscious sedation.
• Catheter Insertion: A catheter is inserted through the femoral artery and guided to the heart.
• Valve Replacement: The new valve is folded and delivered on the catheter, where it is expanded inside the diseased valve.
• Completion: After confirming proper placement, the catheter is removed, and the small incision is closed.

The TAVI procedure is performed in a specialized cardiac catheterization lab and typically lasts between one to three hours. This innovative technique minimizes trauma to the body, reduces recovery time, and improves outcomes for patients at risk.

Benefits of TAVI

The TAVI procedure offers several significant benefits over traditional surgical valve replacement. Here are some of the key advantages:

• Minimally Invasive: The small incision method reduces trauma and postoperative pain compared to open-heart surgery.
• Reduced Recovery Time: Many patients can return to normal activities within a week compared to weeks or months traditionally required.
• Lower Risk of Complications: The procedure is associated with a decrease in complications such as infections and blood loss.
• Improved Heart Function: Most patients experience significant improvements in quality of life and cardiac function following the procedure.
• Shorter Hospital Stay: Patients often leave the hospital sooner, leading to a faster transition back to daily life.

These benefits position TAVI as an attractive option, especially for elderly patients or those with comorbidities that make traditional surgery riskier.

Who is a Candidate for TAVI?

While TAVI is suitable for many patients with aortic stenosis, it is not for everyone. The selection process involves a detailed assessment by a multidisciplinary team that includes cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and other healthcare professionals at Livasa Hospitals. Roughly 5% to 10% of patients may qualify for TAVI, and candidates typically present specific criteria:

• Severe aortic stenosis, causing significant symptoms, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or fatigue.
• Age: Many candidates are elderly patients (typically over 75 years) who have increased surgical risks.
• Comorbidities: Patients with other medical conditions, such as lung disease or chronic illness that complicate open-heart surgery.
• Anatomical considerations: The structure and condition of the arteries and heart will influence candidacy for TAVI.

The ultimate decision regarding eligibility is determined through a comprehensive evaluation, ensuring that TAVI is in the best interest of the patient's overall health and prognosis.

Risks and Considerations

Like any medical procedure, TAVI carries risks. It's crucial for patients to understand potential complications even though the procedure is generally safe. Some of the risks associated with TAVI include:

• Bleeding: Since the procedure involves the vascular system, there's a risk of bleeding at the catheter insertion site.
• Heart Arrhythmias: Some patients may experience irregular heartbeats post-procedure, requiring monitoring.
• Infection: As with any invasive procedure, there is a risk of infection.
• Stroke: There's a slight risk of stroke during or after the procedure due to dislodged plaque or blood clots.
• Valve Misplacement: Rarely, the new valve may be improperly placed, necessitating a follow-up procedure.

At Livasa Hospitals, our expert team is dedicated to minimizing risks through meticulous planning and management, monitoring patients closely during recovery to identify and address any complications early.

What to Expect After TAVI

Following the TAVI procedure, patients typically spend a day or two in the hospital for recovery and monitoring. Discharge plans generally involve:

• Hospital Stay: Patients usually remain in a monitored area for 24-48 hours for observations.
• Activity Level: Patients are encouraged to engage in light activity shortly after but should avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for several weeks.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Routine follow-ups are crucial for heart function evaluations and overall recovery.
• Medications: Patients may need to take anticoagulants or other medications to help prevent complications.

Most patients notice improvements in symptoms within days, with a remarkable ability to resume normal life activities. However, ongoing follow-up and adherence to the prescribed cardiac regimen are essential for long-term health.

Cost of TAVI Procedure in Punjab

In terms of financial considerations, the cost of the TAVI procedure varies across hospitals in Punjab, reflecting factors such as hospital facilities, expertise of the healthcare team, and the technology utilized. On average, patients can expect the costs to range between ₹10 lakhs to ₹15 lakhs, including hospital stay, medical consultations, and follow-up care.

Understanding the financial implications is important for candidates. At Livasa Hospitals, we strive to ensure transparency in pricing and offer various options for financial assistance. We encourage patients to discuss financial concerns with our patient coordinators to explore potential insurance options and payment plans.

Why Choose Livasa Hospitals for TAVI?

Choosing the right healthcare provider for your TAVI procedure is a critical decision. At Livasa Hospitals, we pride ourselves on being one of the best cardiac hospitals in Mohali, specializing in advanced heart treatments. Here’s why you should consider us:

• Experienced Team: Our team comprises renowned heart specialists and surgeons with extensive experience in TAVI.
• Comprehensive Care: We provide a full spectrum of cardiovascular services, including evaluation, procedure, and follow-up.
• State-of-the-Art Technology: Utilizing the latest advancements in cardiac care ensures enhanced patient safety and outcomes.
• Patient-Centric Approach: We are committed to providing personalized care to meet the unique needs of each patient.
• Robust Support System: From consultation to recovery, our dedicated staff is with you at every step.

With a focus on patient education and support, we aim to empower individuals in managing their heart health effectively.

Schedule a Consultation

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of aortic stenosis or are considering the TAVI procedure, we invite you to consult with our experienced heart specialists at Livasa Hospitals. Our dedicated team is here to provide personalized insights and discuss the best treatment options tailored to your needs.

Contact us today at +91 80788 80788 or visit our website at livasahospitals.com/appointment to book an appointment.