Cardiology · Structural Heart
TAVR / TAVI
A new heart valve — without opening the chest
Medically reviewed by Dr Kunal Ajay Patankar, DrNB (Cardiology)
What it is
TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement, also called TAVI) treats severe aortic stenosis — a stiff, narrowed aortic valve — by implanting a new valve through a small puncture in the groin, while the heart keeps beating.
Once reserved for patients too frail for surgery, TAVR is now a mainstream option across risk groups, offering faster recovery and outcomes matching or exceeding open surgery in appropriately selected patients. Untreated severe symptomatic aortic stenosis is life-threatening, so timely evaluation matters.
Who needs it
- Severe aortic stenosis with breathlessness, chest pain, giddiness or blackouts
- Elderly patients or those at elevated surgical risk
- Failed surgical bioprosthetic valves (valve-in-valve TAVR)
- Patients preferring a minimally invasive option after heart-team review
How it happens, step by step
1
Heart-team evaluation
Echocardiography and a CT scan map your valve and vessels. A heart team — interventional cardiologist, surgeon, anaesthetist — confirms TAVR is your best option and selects the valve size.
2
Access
Under sedation or light anaesthesia, the valve delivery system enters through a 5–6 mm puncture in the groin artery. No chest incision, no heart-lung machine.
3
Valve deployment
The new valve, mounted on a catheter, is positioned inside your old valve using X-ray and echo guidance, then expanded — taking over instantly.
4
Confirmation
Function is verified on the table. Many patients are awake enough to know the valve is working before leaving the lab.
Recovery, honestly
- Most patients sit up the same evening and walk the next day
- Typical discharge in 2–4 days
- Return to normal activity within 1–2 weeks for most
- Blood thinners and follow-up echocardiograms as advised
Common questions
How long does a TAVR valve last?
Current data shows excellent durability beyond 8–10 years, with studies ongoing. For most patients receiving TAVR, the valve is expected to serve for their lifetime.
Am I too old for TAVR?
Age alone rarely rules out TAVR — it was designed for older patients. Suitability depends on anatomy and overall health, assessed by the heart team.
TAVR or open surgery?
For many patients, both are valid. We weigh age, anatomy, surgical risk and your priorities transparently — the heart-team model exists precisely for this decision.
Is it painful?
There is no chest wound. Discomfort is limited to the small groin puncture, and most patients are surprised by how quickly they're back on their feet.
Wondering if TAVR / TAVI is right for you?
Every heart is different. Bring your reports and questions — we'll map your options together.