Heart HQ: TAVI
Heart HQ – Episode 4: Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implant (TAVI)
In this episode we discuss Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implant (TAVI). Traditionally, open heart surgery has been the main treatment option for aortic stenosis (where the aortic valve has narrowed and doesn’t work properly). However TAVI is a newer, far less invasive alternative.
The TAVI device sits inside a stent, attached to the end of the catheter. The catheter is carefully passed through the femoral artery (the main artery at the top of the leg) up to the heart. Sometimes alternative access may be used such as the right subclavian artery in the neck/shoulder.
X-rays and a transesophageal echo (an ultrasound probe inserted into the oesophagus) are used to help visualise the positioning of the catheter and device.
Once the TAVI is in the correct position, the new valve will slowly be released and will “self expand”. Alternatively, a small balloon may be used to open up the new valve.
In the podcast, we discuss a recent patient’s experience with TAVI and as well as 5 things to consider when it comes to the procedure.
Show notes: Episode 4
ViV TAVI
TAVI durability data
References
- Engineered for Today and Tomorrow – Medtronic TAVI Platform
- Transcatheter aortic valve implant/replacement – Heart HQ
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