What is TAVI? How Is It Performed? Who Is It Applied To?

Heart valve diseases are common, especially in advanced age, and can significantly affect quality of life with complaints such as shortness of breath, easy fatigue, chest pain, and fainting. For many years, the main treatment for aortic stenosis was open-heart surgery, but thanks to new methods developed in recent years, non-surgical options are also coming to the forefront for suitable patients.

What Is the TAVI Method?

Prof. Dr. Can Yücel KARABAY, Cardiology Specialist at Yeditepe University Hospitals Cardiology, stated that the Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) method allows the new valve to be placed through thin catheters advanced from the groin artery in most cases, saying: "In this way, we can perform aortic valve replacement without opening the breastbone in suitable patients. Aortic stenosis, which was once treatable only with open-heart surgery, can now be treated with much more comfortable options for many patients. The TAVI method offers patients, especially those in the advanced age group, the opportunity to breathe comfortably again, walk, and continue their daily lives independently."
Stating that, like many structures in our body, our heart valves wear out over time with advanced age, Prof. Dr. Can Yücel KARABAY said: "Calcification and hardening that develop in the aortic valve, which distributes clean blood from the heart to the entire body, impede blood flow and cause the heart to work harder. This process progresses over the years, and the first symptoms often appear gradually. Patients initially think they are just getting tired a little more quickly. Stairs that were previously climbed with ease become difficult, and they become breathless during short walks. Some people complain of a feeling of pressure in the chest, while others may experience dizziness or fainting episodes."
Stating that these symptoms are often mistaken for the natural result of aging, Prof. Dr. Can Yücel KARABAY, Cardiology Specialist at Yeditepe University Hospitals, said: "Many of our patients attribute [shortness of breath] or reduced exercise capacity to their age. However, these may be the first signs of serious valve disease. In patients we diagnose early, our treatment options increase, and we can significantly improve our patients' quality of life. Early diagnosis in heart valve diseases changes lives. When complaints begin, it is necessary to consult a specialist without delay. Today, we have extremely effective treatment options, and we achieve very successful results in suitable patients."

How Is the TAVI Procedure Performed?

Adding that in the past, the main treatment for aortic stenosis was open-heart surgery, Prof. Dr. Can Yücel KARABAY said: "Open surgery still remains an important option for many patients today. However, thanks to advances in medicine, not every patient needs to undergo major surgery. There are more comfortable alternatives, especially for patients in the advanced age group or those with additional health problems. One of the most important developments in cardiology in recent years has been the TAVI method. In this procedure, the new heart valve is delivered to the heart with the help of thin catheters, advanced mostly from the groin artery, and placed inside the diseased valve. The fact that it does not require opening the breastbone provides a significant advantage, especially for patients in the advanced age group."
According to Prof. Dr. KARABAY, the TAVI procedure is one of the most advanced technologies used today in the treatment of aortic stenosis. "In recent years, there have been very significant advances in valve systems and imaging technologies. Thanks to the systems we use today, we can perform procedures much more safely and successfully," he said.

How Long Does the Recovery Process Take After TAVI?

Stating that a significant proportion of patients can get up the day after the procedure, Prof. Dr. Can Yücel KARABAY said: "They are usually discharged within a few days, and most patients can return to their daily routine about three days after TAVI. The change in people who had difficulty performing daily activities due to shortness of breath before the procedure is truly very encouraging."

Who Is the TAVI Method Applied To?

Emphasising that the most appropriate treatment method is not the same for every patient for those wondering about "Who is the TAVI method applied to?" or "To whom is TAVI not applied?", Prof. Dr. KARABAY said: "The decision process is not made by a single doctor's opinion alone, but by the 'Heart Team,' which includes cardiologists, cardiovascular surgeons, and imaging specialists. After echocardiography, computed tomography, and other necessary examinations, the most appropriate approach for the patient is determined."