Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation - A public awareness film by Seth GSMC & KEMH

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) or Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to replace a diseased aortic valve. It has revolutionized the treatment of severe aortic stenosis, a condition in which the aortic valve thickens and narrows, restricting blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. How the Procedure Works Unlike traditional open-heart surgery, TAVI/TAVR is a catheter-based procedure that does not require opening the chest. The new valve is delivered to the heart through a long, thin, flexible tube called a catheter. Here's a step-by-step overview of the general process: * Access: The catheter is typically inserted into a large artery, most often in the groin (the transfemoral approach). In some cases, if the groin arteries are not suitable, other access points may be used, such as through a small incision in the chest (the transapical approach). * Guidance: Using advanced imaging techniques (such as fluoroscopy and echocardiography), the doctor carefully guides the catheter, with the compressed replacement valve, up to the heart and positions it precisely within the existing, diseased aortic valve. * Implantation: Once in place, the new valve is deployed. Some valves are self-expanding, while others are expanded with a balloon. The new valve pushes the old valve leaflets aside and takes over the function of regulating blood flow. * Completion: The catheter is then removed, and the new valve begins working immediately. The new valve is made of a biological tissue (usually from a cow or pig heart) attached to a collapsible metal frame. Who is a Candidate for TAVI/TAVR? TAVI/TAVR was initially developed for patients with severe aortic stenosis who were considered high-risk or too frail to undergo traditional open-heart surgery. However, with advances in technology and a better understanding of the procedure, its use has expanded to include patients at intermediate and even lower surgical risk. The decision to recommend TAVI/TAVR is made by a specialized "Heart Team" of cardiologists and surgeons who evaluate the patient's overall health and specific condition. Benefits of TAVI/TAVR * Minimally Invasive: It avoids the need for a large chest incision and bypass surgery, leading to less trauma to the body. * Shorter Recovery: Patients typically have a shorter hospital stay and a much faster recovery time compared to open-heart surgery, often resuming normal activities within a week. * Improved Quality of Life: By restoring proper blood flow, the procedure often leads to a rapid improvement in symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. * Effective Alternative: It provides a life-saving option for patients who may not have been able to undergo traditional surgery. Risks and Complications While TAVI/TAVR is generally safe and effective, like any medical procedure, it carries some risks. These can include: * Vascular complications: Damage to the blood vessel where the catheter was inserted. * Pacemaker implantation: The new valve can sometimes put pressure on the heart's electrical system, requiring the implantation of a pacemaker. * Stroke: There is a small risk of a stroke occurring during or shortly after the procedure. * Valve leaks: A leak around the new valve (paravalvular leak) may occur, which can sometimes require further intervention. In conclusion, TAVI/TAVR is a significant advancement in cardiovascular medicine, offering a less invasive and highly effective treatment for a serious heart condition, especially for patients who are not suitable candidates for traditional open-heart surgery. managed by @drshreerajt & @SM_85