TAVI
Pronunciation: TAH-vee
Also written as: TAVI — Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation, a minimally invasive procedure to replace aortic valves without open-heart surgery.
Full Definition
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), also known as transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), represents a revolutionary approach to treating severe aortic stenosis in patients deemed high-risk or inoperable for surgical valve replacement. The procedure involves delivering a collapsible prosthetic valve through peripheral arteries, typically via transfemoral access, and deploying it within the diseased native aortic valve. TAVI has transformed treatment paradigms for elderly patients and those with multiple comorbidities, offering reduced procedural trauma and faster recovery compared to traditional surgical approaches. The technology continues evolving with newer-generation devices showing improved outcomes and expanding indications to lower-risk populations.
Usage
Usage note: TAVI and TAVR are interchangeable; maintain consistency within documents.
In Context
- "The patient underwent successful TAVI with a self-expanding valve system." — Procedure summary
- "TAVI has become the preferred treatment for high-risk aortic stenosis patients." — Clinical guideline