TAVI (also called TAVR – Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement) is a minimally invasive procedure to replace a diseased aortic valve without open-heart surgery. Since its introduction, TAVI has transformed the treatment of aortic stenosis and is now performed in patients across all risk categories.
What is Aortic Stenosis?
The aortic valve controls blood flow from the heart to the body. Aortic stenosis occurs when this valve becomes narrowed, usually due to age-related calcium deposits on the valve leaflets. Symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath, especially with exertion
- Fatigue and reduced exercise tolerance
- Chest pain or tightness
- Fainting or dizziness
How TAVI Works
During TAVI, a new valve made from biological tissue is compressed onto a catheter and inserted through an artery – most commonly the femoral artery in the groin. The catheter is guided to the heart under X-ray imaging. Once in position, the new valve is expanded inside the diseased valve, taking over its function immediately.
The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours and is usually performed under general anaesthesia or deep sedation. Most patients spend one to three days in hospital after TAVI.
TAVI at Central Sydney Cardiology
Dr Jordan Fulcher has undertaken advanced fellowship training in transcatheter valve therapies in Australia and the United Kingdom. He is actively involved in TAVI research, including participation in international clinical trials such as the SMART Trial and PROTECT-TAVI study.
Related: Heart Valve Disease | Dr Jordan Fulcher