Severe aortic stenosis is a serious heart condition. It occurs when the aortic valve becomes narrow and does not open properly. As a result, the heart has to work harder to pump blood to the body. Without treatment, it can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, fainting, and heart failure.
For many patients, TAVI, also called TAVR, offers a less invasive way to replace the damaged valve. Unlike traditional open-heart surgery, TAVI does not usually require opening the chest. This treatment can reduce hospital recovery time and help many patients return to their daily activities sooner.
For international patients, however, choosing the right heart center and planning the complete treatment journey are essential.
What Is TAVI / TAVR?
TAVI stands for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation. TAVR means Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement. Both terms describe the same type of treatment.
During TAVI, a doctor places a new biological valve inside the patient's damaged aortic valve. The new valve takes over the work of the old valve and improves blood flow from the heart.
The doctor usually reaches the heart through an artery in the groin. In some patients, another access route may be more appropriate.
The procedure uses a thin tube called a catheter. Because the doctor does not normally need to open the chest, TAVI is considered a minimally invasive treatment.
When Is TAVI Recommended?
TAVI is mainly used to treat patients with severe aortic stenosis.
Doctors may consider it when the narrowing of the aortic valve causes symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, fainting, reduced ability to exercise, or unusual tiredness.
Some patients with severe aortic stenosis have few or no symptoms. Even in these cases, a specialist may recommend treatment after a detailed assessment.
TAVI is not suitable for everyone. The Heart Team considers the patient's age, general health, valve anatomy, other medical conditions, and the risks and benefits of each treatment option.
TAVI or Open-Heart Surgery?
There are two main approaches to replacing a severely damaged aortic valve: TAVI and surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR).
TAVI may offer a faster recovery for selected patients, but open-heart surgery remains an important treatment for many people. The Heart Team should make the final decision after reviewing the complete medical assessment.
Access: TAVI usually requires only a small opening in the groin or another access point. SAVR requires open-heart surgery, where the surgeon opens the chest and replaces the damaged valve directly.
Heart-lung machine: Usually not required for TAVI. Usually required for SAVR.
Hospital stay and recovery: TAVI often means a hospital stay of a few days and generally faster recovery. SAVR usually requires a longer stay and more recovery time.
How Doctors Evaluate a TAVI Patient
Before treatment, patients undergo several tests. These tests help doctors confirm the severity of the valve disease and determine whether TAVI is safe.
Heart ultrasound: An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to create images of the heart, allowing doctors to assess how narrow the aortic valve has become, how well the heart pumps blood, the size and function of the heart chambers, and pressure changes across the valve. This is one of the most important tests when evaluating severe aortic stenosis.
Cardiac CT scan: A detailed CT scan of the heart and blood vessels helps the medical team plan the procedure. It shows the size and shape of the aortic valve, helps doctors examine the arteries that may be used to introduce the catheter, and helps select the appropriate valve size.
Coronary angiography: Some patients also need coronary angiography, which allows doctors to examine the blood vessels that supply the heart. If significant coronary artery disease is present, the Heart Team can include this condition in the treatment plan.
The TAVI Procedure and Recovery
TAVI takes place in a specialized cardiac procedure room. The patient receives anesthesia or sedation according to the medical center's protocol and individual needs. The doctor introduces a thin catheter through an artery, usually in the groin, which carries the folded replacement valve toward the heart.
Once the valve reaches the correct position, the doctor expands it inside the damaged aortic valve. The new valve pushes the old valve leaflets aside and begins controlling blood flow. The doctor then removes the catheter and closes the access site. The exact technique varies according to the patient's anatomy and the type of valve used.
One of the main advantages of TAVI is the shorter recovery period compared with traditional open-heart surgery for many patients. Doctors usually monitor the patient closely afterward, checking heart rhythm, blood pressure, valve function, the catheter entry site, kidney function, and possible signs of complications. Many patients can begin walking soon after the procedure.
The length of the hospital stay varies according to the patient's health and recovery. Some patients leave the hospital after a few days, while others need longer monitoring.
Benefits and Risks of TAVI
For appropriate patients, TAVI can provide important benefits, though results vary from one patient to another.
Less invasive treatment: TAVI usually avoids opening the chest, which can reduce the physical impact of treatment compared with open-heart surgery.
Faster recovery: Many patients return to light daily activities sooner than they would after traditional valve surgery.
Improved symptoms and quality of life: Successful valve replacement can improve symptoms such as breathlessness, tiredness, chest discomfort, and reduced exercise capacity — helping patients regain independence and participate more easily in everyday activities.
Possible risks: Although TAVI is less invasive than open-heart surgery, it remains a major heart procedure. Possible complications include bleeding, infection, abnormal heart rhythm, damage to blood vessels, stroke, kidney problems, leakage around the new valve, the need for a pacemaker, and complications related to the catheter access site. The Heart Team will explain these risks before treatment and compare them with the risks of other treatment options.
How Long Does a TAVI Valve Last?
Modern TAVI valves are biological valves made from treated animal tissue. Current evidence suggests that many TAVI valves can function well for many years. However, the exact durability varies according to the valve, the patient's age, health, and other factors.
Younger patients may require particularly careful long-term planning because they may live for many years after valve replacement. Your cardiologist can explain the expected durability of the selected valve and discuss future treatment options if another valve procedure becomes necessary.
International Medical Care with CureSureMedico
For patients traveling abroad for heart treatment, the procedure itself is only one part of the journey. Before international travel, patients should have their medical records reviewed and confirm that the selected center can perform the required procedure — reviewing previous cardiac records, obtaining an independent medical review, completing additional imaging when required, and confirming treatment eligibility with the hospital's Heart Team before travel and appointments are finalized.
Independent medical review of cardiac records and imaging, communication with specialist cardiology teams, coordination of hospital appointments, assistance with additional medical tests, treatment planning, travel logistics, hospital coordination, support for the patient and family during the stay, discharge and return planning, and continuity of care after the patient returns home.
This coordinated approach allows patients to focus on their treatment while the practical aspects of cross-border care are organized in advance.
CureSureMedico helps patients coordinate these different stages of their international medical care. Our support can include:
Access Specialized TAVI / TAVR Care
Severe aortic stenosis should not be ignored. When the disease becomes severe or causes symptoms, timely evaluation by a specialized cardiac team is essential. TAVI can offer an effective and less invasive alternative to open-heart valve replacement for appropriately selected patients.
For patients from Africa who are considering treatment abroad, CureSureMedico helps coordinate access to experienced cardiac centers and supports the entire treatment journey. From the initial medical assessment and independent medical review to international travel, hospital treatment, and follow-up at home, our team helps patients navigate each stage with greater clarity and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TAVI better than open-heart surgery?
Not necessarily. TAVI and surgical valve replacement have different advantages and risks. The best treatment depends on the patient's age, health, valve anatomy, life expectancy, and other medical conditions. A specialized Heart Team should make the recommendation after a complete evaluation.
How long does the TAVI procedure take?
The procedure itself often takes around one to two hours, although the total time in the cardiac procedure unit may be longer. The exact duration depends on the patient's condition and the technique used.
How long will I stay in the hospital?
Many patients stay for a few days after TAVI. The exact length depends on recovery, heart rhythm monitoring, kidney function, and whether complications occur.
Can I travel after TAVI?
Patients should not plan international travel immediately after the procedure without medical approval. The treating team will determine when it is safe to travel based on recovery and follow-up needs.
Will I need medication after TAVI?
Many patients need medication after valve replacement. The exact treatment depends on the patient's medical history and other heart conditions. Your cardiologist will provide an individualized medication plan.
