Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI)

a modern solution for aortic stenosis

What Is TAVI?

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) is a minimally invasive procedure for replacing the aortic valve without opening the chest.
Instead of traditional open-heart surgery, the valve is delivered to the heart through the femoral artery using a catheter.

The method is recommended for patients:

With grade 3 aortic stenosis
With contraindications to open-heart surgery
Of advanced age or with comorbidities affecting other organs

Advantages of Transcatheter Valve Replacement

No need to open the chest
Minimal trauma
No use of a heart-lung machine
Fast recovery — discharge after 4–5 days
Option for repeat “valve-in-valve” procedures in the future

How the Procedure Is Performed

Access: via a small puncture in the femoral artery — no sternotomy required.
Implantation: the folded valve is delivered to the heart through the blood vessels.
Fixation: the balloon expands the valve opening, placing a biological prosthesis inside the patient’s own valve.
The procedure can be performed under general anesthesia or without it.
Postoperative observation: 1 day in intensive care, followed by 4–5 days in a regular ward before discharge.

Postoperative Care

Prescription of antiplatelet therapy (medications preventing blood clots);
Regular follow-up with a cardiologist;
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following medical recommendations.

Effectiveness and Prognosis

TAVI demonstrates high survival rates and excellent long-term outcomes.
It is a safe alternative to open-heart surgery for elderly and frail patients.
The Clinic for High Medical Technologies of St. Petersburg State University uses modern equipment and world-class technology.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will the implanted valve last after TAVI?

Modern biological prostheses last on average 8 to 15 years, depending on the patient’s age, activity level, and adherence to recommendations.

How does TAVI differ from traditional valve replacement?

TAVI does not require opening the chest, using a heart-lung machine, or general anesthesia with extracorporeal circulation — it is a more gentle and safer method for patients at high surgical risk.

Will another procedure be needed in the future?

In some cases, years later, a repeat “valve-in-valve” procedure may be necessary — it is also performed transcatheterally, without surgical incisions.