TAVI/TAVR valve replacement in Turkey | Costs & Best Cardiologists

Aortic valve replacement: a therapeutic breakthrough

Severe aortic stenosis, a heart condition in which the aortic valve becomes narrowed, often requires surgery. Traditionally, two types of artificial heart valves have been proposed:

• Mechanical valves: Durable and effective, but require lifelong anticoagulant treatment to prevent blood clots.
• Biological valves: derived from animals or humans, do not require anticoagulation, but have a limited lifespan and may eventually need to be replaced.

Technological advances in Turkey have opened up new therapeutic perspectives. It is now possible to replace the aortic valve through a less invasive procedure without opening the chest. This technique, known as TAVI (transcatheter aortic valve implantation),offers a less traumatic alternative for many patients.

TAVI operation : What is it ?

A Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) operation, also known as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR),is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat severe aortic stenosis. Instead of removing the damaged aortic valve through open-heart surgery, doctors insert a new biological valve through a catheter.

The catheter is usually introduced through an artery in the groin and guided to the heart. Once in position, the new valve is expanded inside the diseased aortic valve. It immediately helps restore blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body.

TAVI can be an alternative to traditional aortic valve replacement, particularly for patients who may have a higher risk with open-heart surgery. The most appropriate treatment depends on the patient's age, overall health, heart condition, and anatomy.

How TAVI is performed in Turkey

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR),or TAVI, in Turkey is performed with precision and under strict medical supervision to ensure optimal placement and function of the new valve.
A trained cardiologist carefully inserts a catheter through a leg artery or sometimes the chest, guiding it to the heart. Using advanced imaging, the replacement valve is precisely positioned at the aortic valve site.

Key advantages over traditional surgery:

• Reduces trauma and blood loss
• Avoids open-heart surgery and thoracic incision
• Promotes quicker recovery and return to normal activities
• High procedural success rate (>95%)

Preparing for your TAVI procedure

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVI) is a significant procedure that requires careful preparation. To optimize your outcome, consider the following steps:

• Quit smoking: Smoking can significantly increase the risk of post-procedure complications. By quitting, you'll improve your overall health and reduce the likelihood of breathing difficulties, infections, and delayed healing.
• Prioritize overall health: Your doctor will conduct blood tests to assess your hemoglobin levels, which are crucial for a successful recovery. If your hemoglobin is low, steps can be taken to increase it before the procedure.

By following these recommendations, you can actively contribute to the success of your TAVI and a smoother recovery. Don't hesitate to discuss your concerns with your cardiologist, who is committed to guiding you through this process.

Risks and potential complications of TAVI

Complications associated with TAVI surgery, although rare, can be divided into two main groups:

Periprosthetic complications

These complications directly involve the implanted prosthetic valve or adjacent anatomical structures. They may include:

• Paravalvular leak.
• Prosthesis migration.
• Coronary obstruction.
• Annular rupture, generally very rare.

Systemic complications

These complications affect organs distant from the heart. They may include

• Embolism (fragments of blood clots or prosthetic material that travel to other organs).
• Arrhythmias, sometimes requiring the placement of a pacemaker.
• Vascular access-related complications (bleeding, hematoma).

The success rate of TAVI is high, generally greater than 95%, with a very low procedure-related mortality rate.

Recovery after TAVI

Recovery after TAVI is generally faster and less demanding than after traditional open-heart surgery. Most patients can expect to resume daily activities within a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on their overall health.

Key aspects of recovery include:

• Follow-up: Regular check-ups to monitor heart function and detect complications early.
• Lifestyle: Maintain a heart-healthy diet, stay active, and manage blood pressure and cholesterol.
• Medications: Take prescribed medications, including anticoagulants if needed.