Can TAVI or TAVR Treat Severe Aortic Valve Stenosis?
Severe aortic valve stenosis occurs when the aortic valve becomes significantly narrowed, making it harder for the heart to pump blood efficiently to the rest of the body. This condition can cause symptoms such as chest discomfort, breathlessness, dizziness, fatigue, and reduced exercise capacity. When severe stenosis causes symptoms or begins to affect heart function, valve replacement may be recommended. TAVI, also known as TAVR, is a minimally invasive procedure that can be used to replace a diseased aortic valve in appropriately selected patients. Unlike traditional surgical aortic valve replacement, TAVI does not generally require opening the chest. Instead, a replacement valve is delivered through a catheter, most commonly through an artery in the groin, and positioned inside the narrowed native valve. During the procedure, the new valve expands and begins regulating blood flow through the aortic valve. By improving blood flow from the heart to the body, TAVI can help relieve...