TAVI
Also written as: TAVI — transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation, a minimally invasive procedure to replace the aortic valve without open-heart surgery.
Full Definition
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), also known as transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), is a minimally invasive procedure for treating severe aortic stenosis in patients who are at high risk for conventional surgical valve replacement. The procedure involves inserting a collapsible bioprosthetic valve through a catheter, typically via the femoral artery, and deploying it within the diseased native aortic valve. TAVI has revolutionized the treatment of aortic stenosis, particularly in elderly patients with multiple comorbidities. The procedure requires careful pre-procedural imaging and planning, including CT angiography for sizing and access route assessment. Indications have expanded to include intermediate-risk and select low-risk patients.
Usage
Usage note: TAVI and TAVR are used interchangeably, with regional preferences for terminology.
In Context
- "The patient underwent successful TAVI with a 26mm bioprosthetic valve via transfemoral approach." — procedure report
- "TAVI was considered given the patient's prohibitive surgical risk for conventional aortic valve replacement." — heart team discussion