Overview

Metro Hospital in India provides world-class facilities for the innovative Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) surgery, performed by some of the finest surgeons in the country.

What is TAVR/TAVI?

TAVR, also known as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI), is an advanced surgical procedure for patients with Aortic Stenosis. This minimally invasive technique involves replacing the malfunctioning aortic valve with a new one using a long, narrow tube called a catheter.

What is Aortic Stenosis?

Aortic Stenosis occurs when the aortic valve malfunctions, preventing it from properly opening and closing. This condition hinders the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently, often due to calcium deposits on the valve’s leaflets.

Symptoms of Aortic Stenosis

Common symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
• Chest pain
• Fatigue
• Swelling of the legs
• Dizziness and fainting

These symptoms arise as the narrowed aortic valve obstructs blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body.

Diagnosis of Aortic Stenosis

Before performing TAVI/TAVR, doctors conduct several diagnostic tests:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Angiogram
• Computed Tomography (CT) scan
• Echocardiogram

These tests help determine the severity of the condition and whether TAVI/TAVR is a suitable option, especially when traditional open-heart surgery poses high risks due to other medical conditions.

Benefits of TAVI Surgery in India

• Minimally invasive procedure
• Less painful than open-heart surgery
• Shorter hospital stay (4-5 days)
• Improved quality of life for patients ineligible for standard valve replacement

Ideal Candidates for TAVI/TAVR

TAVI/TAVR is suitable for patients with:

• A malfunctioning previously replaced valve
• Ineligibility for open-heart surgery due to conditions like lung or kidney disease

Specific patient profiles include:

• Advanced age with a history of stroke
• Kidney disease or a weak heart
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Previous heart surgeries
• Diabetes leading to calcified blood vessels

Preparation for TAVI/TAVR Surgery

Pre-surgery preparations include:

• Comprehensive medical tests to ensure suitability for TAVI/TAVR
• Consultations to explain risks and obtain consent
• Hospitalization and necessary medications to minimize infection risk

Patients should bring all necessary personal items and inform doctors about current medications, allergies, and dietary restrictions before surgery.

Post-Surgery Care

Post-surgery, patients should:

• Stay in the hospital for 2 to 5 days for recovery
• Follow prescribed medications and care instructions to avoid infections

Cost of TAVR Surgery in India

The cost of TAVR surgery varies based on the patient’s medical condition, the hospital, and post-procedure care. Patients are advised to discuss fees with caregivers and hospital staff. TAVI surgery in India is generally more affordable than in Western countries, attracting international patients seeking expert care and advanced medical facilities at a lower cost.

Reviewed & Updated On

Reviewed by Dr. (Prof.) Purshotam Lal, Chairman – Metro Group of Hospitals & Director – Interventional Cardiology on 13-June-2024.