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Transcatheter aortic valve implantation, often referred to as TAVI, is a minimally invasive technique that involves inserting a replacement valve into your heart. TAVI is also known as TAVR, which stands for transcatheter aortic valve replacement. TAVI procedures are currently a recognized and effective treatment for individuals with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis, and it is a viable alternative to surgery in some high-risk patients who cannot be operated on.  

People with symptomatic aortic stenosis can benefit from TAVI as it can improve their quality of life and life expectancy while also lowering symptoms!  The success rate for transcatheter aortic valve replacement is 90%, a significant rate! Early clinical research and trials indicated that among patients at higher risk for surgical problems, TAVI was more likely to be effective and less likely to result in death or serious complications. 

What is Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation?

Transcatheter aortic valve implantationis an alternative to open heart surgery and is used as a medical technique that replaces the aortic valve in your heart. These days, the most popular method for replacing an aortic valve is this minimally invasive technique. The aortic valve is the last one of your heart’s four valves that regulate your blood flow to the entire body, and through that valve, your heart circulates blood to your aorta as well.

According to research, TAVI is often safer than surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) and produces results that are comparable to or superior to SAVR. If you have an increasing chance of heart failure because of aortic valve stenosis, you might need to have your aortic valve replaced through this procedure. 

How is TAVI Performed?

The TAVI procedure for the heart is a complicated process that is handled very cautiously and delicately! You will be given either general anaesthesia (less common) or mild sedation (most frequent) before the start of the surgery, and even though both can prevent pain, mild sedation has a weaker impact. 

A medical professional inserts a tube into your throat and attaches it to a breathing apparatus during general anaesthesia, and after the operation is complete, they remove the tube. What’s more, you will be given medication to avoid blood clots. TAVI is usually done inside the cath lab or hybrid OT with surgical backup.

A cardiologist doing a transcatheter aortic valve implantation will use an antiseptic solution to clean the skin surrounding the surgery site. To access your aortic valve, the surgeon inserts a catheter into your leg artery and then takes it through your aorta to perform the procedure. 

Throughout the surgery, your surgeon will insert more catheters into your heart to obtain measurements and X-ray images; in addition to that, the surgeon will guide either a balloon-expandable valve or a self-expanding valve through your old aortic valve and up the femoral artery catheter. 

Your surgeon will then replace the old valve with the new one when it is positioned correctly. However, before removing the catheters, your doctor will take measurements and pictures to ensure your replacement valve functions as intended. 

The function of the replacement valve is subsequently evaluated using transthoracic echocardiography. After completing the process, your physician will use a suture device that doesn’t require an incision to close your femoral artery. 

What Happens After the TAVI Procedure?  

To be closely monitored following your surgery, you can be admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of the hospital for the night, but remember, numerous factors determine how long you spend in the hospital for transcatheter aortic valve replacement recovery. 

Some TAVI patients may return home the next day after the treatment!Fever, increasing discomfort and redness, swelling, and leaking or draining at the catheter site are all warning symptoms of infection. Following TAVI, several medications may be administered to patients.

• Anticoagulants – This medication aids in blood clot prevention, and your health status determines the length of time you may need to take this medication. Always remember to take medications exactly as prescribed. 
• Antibiotics – These medications treat and prevent bacterial infections because artificial heart valves can become infected or adhere to germs. Most germs that cause heart valve infections originate in the mouth, but these infections can be avoided by taking appropriate care of your mouth and teeth!  

Following TAVI, routine medical examinations and imaging tests are required to ensure the replacement valve is functioning as intended. Still, remember to inform your doctor of any new or worsening symptoms, such as:

• Light headedness
• Dizziness
• Swelling at the ankles
• Unexpected increase in weight
• Excessive fatigue
• Redness
• Swelling

Most importantly, you must seek immediate medical attention if you have chest tightness or pain, sudden shortness of breath, or if you faint. 

The Health Risks of TAVI

Clinical studies have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of TAVI. However, there are some TAVI procedure risksassociated with the process, so let’s take a look. 

Valve leaks	This can happen when the replacement valve is too small, hasn’t expanded completely, or has calcium buildup interfering with it; however, more recent models being developed are more effective.
Kidney damage	Your kidneys may be harmed by the contrast dye used for imaging, although this is typically treatable.
Damage to your vessels	Putting catheters through your arteries may cause harm to them.
Pacemakers	Sometimes, valves that open during implantation might put pressure on the heart’s system, necessitating the use of a pacemaker because of the development of heart block.
Stroke	Some patients having TAVI have experienced a stroke, either during or shortly after the treatment. This is one of the seriouscomplications of the TAVI procedure, but the number of people who suffer from it is really small!

Benefits of TAVI

Compared to surgery, a TAVI treatment offers several benefits, and for this reason, it is currently the most often used technique for aortic valve replacement.Among those benefits are:

• Less intrusive than open-heart surgery – Large incisions are made in your chest for the majority of cardiac procedures, and to do cardiac surgery, surgeons frequently need to elevate your rib cage or even break it apart. No internal organs or ribs need to be moved during TAVI; a tiny incision is made for this process.
• Recovery is easier – Your body will need less time to recover if the incisions are smaller, there will be less discomfort, and there will be a quicker recovery result. 
• Shorter hospital stay -A hospital stay of several days is typically required following open heart surgery. However, your doctor could send you home the same day or the following day after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. The severity of your case, the time of your surgery, and your general health will all play a role in this.

Final Remarks

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation, or TAVI, is a minimally invasive surgery! This procedure has been performed on thousands of patients, and no matter your condition, it has significant advantages over open heart surgery, but if you are going for a TAVI surgery, selecting a practitioner who has extensive expertise doing this treatment will help increase the success rate. 

If you are facing any heart-related conditions and need treatment for it, visit your nearest super-specialty hospital as soon as possible! 

FAQs

1. What are the main benefits of TAVI/TAVR?

The procedure offers quicker recovery, reduced hospital stays, and fewer complications compared to open-heart surgery. It also significantly improves heart function and quality of life.

2. How long does the TAVI/TAVR procedure take?

The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity, and most patients are awake with light sedation during the process.

3. What is the recovery time after TAVI/TAVR?

Recovery is generally faster than open-heart surgery. Patients can often resume normal activities within a week, with full recovery in a few weeks.

4. Is TAVI/TAVR safe?

Yes, TAVI/TAVR is considered safe and is backed by extensive clinical studies. However, like any medical procedure, it carries risks, including bleeding, infection, or stroke.

5. Will I need blood thinners after TAVI/TAVR?

Most patients require blood-thinning medication temporarily to prevent clot formation. Your doctor will provide specific guidance based on your condition.

What Is The Difference Between Bypass Surgery And Open Heart Surgery?

Open heart surgery and bypass surgery are the most commonly used procedures for the most effective treatments for heart diseases. Open heart surgery is performed by accessing the heart directly by making an incision through a patient’s chest, while bypass surgery involves creating alternate pathways to direct blood flow.  Both surgical procedures have their own advantages and benefits. The heart may or may not need to be opened during open heart surgery. It might entail operations on other parts of the chest, such as the heart’s muscles, valves, or arteries.

Bypass surgery is just a type of open-heart surgery. Bypass surgery may not be performed in an open heart manner. In bypass surgery, a blood vessel from the chest or the leg is transplanted on the coronary artery that has a blockage. The process makes sure that the blocked part of the arteries is bypassed and blood can flow easily through this new vessel. Bypass surgery may be performed through open-heart surgery or less invasive methods.

What Is Open Heart Surgery?

The term “open-heart surgery” refers to a procedure where the patient’s chest is opened to directly access the heart to address heart-related problems. To access the heart, surgeons will cut through the sternum (breastbone) and spread the ribs. This is referred to as ‘cracking the chest’.

The following are the conditions that you may need an open heart surgery:

• Arrhythmias
• Coronary artery disease
• Congenital heart defects
• Heart valve disease
• Aneurysms
• Heart failure

Open Heart Surgery -Procedure:

Heart surgery is a complex procedure. Six hours or more may be needed for certain procedures. During the procedure, you will be kept under anesthesia and remain unconscious. The sequence of the surgical processes may vary depending on the heart condition and procedure. In general, your cardiologist will perform the following steps:

• An incision of 6 to 8-inch length is made down the middle of your chest
• The surgeon will cut your breast bone and spread your ribcage apart to get access to your heart
• They will connect the heart to a heart-lung bypass machine if you are having an on-pump surgery. An IV medication will be given to you to stop the heart from beating and then monitor you during the surgery
• Repairs the condition inside your heart
• Restores the blood flow to your heart. In general, the heart starts beating on its own, but in certain conditions, it may need a mild electrical shock to restart functioning
• Disconnect the heart-lung bypass machine
• Using sutures, they will close the incision in the breast bone and the other incision
• Uses stitches to close the skin incision

Depending upon the surgery performed, you need to stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) for a day or longer. Once your condition is stable, you will be shifted into the room. You may need to stay for a longer period in the hospital.

What Are The Risks Of Open Heart Surgery:

As it is a complex procedure, open heart surgery involves risks. The chances of having complications are greater if you have obesity, smoking habits,  chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and diabetes.
The following are the risks associated with open heart surgery:

• Allergic reaction to anesthesia
• Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
• Bleeding or formation of blood clots
• Damage to adjacent blood vessels or damage to adjacent organs like kidneys, or lungs
• Infections
• Stroke

What Is Heart Bypass Surgery?

Heart bypass surgery or coronary artery bypass grafting is a surgical procedure carried out to restore blood flow to areas of your heart that are not getting adequate blood. This procedure can help you feel better and perform better in your heart, particularly if you’ve recently had a heart attack or are at a higher risk of getting one soon.

The following are the conditions that you may need a heart bypass surgery:

• Coronary artery disease
• Heart attack
• Angina pectoris
• Myocardial ischaemia

Heart Bypass Surgery- Procedure:

Heart bypass surgery is the recommended choice of treatment method in cases of complex vessel disease if a person needs multiple bypasses, or if they have other underlying health conditions such as diabetes.
The following are the steps in bypass surgery:

• An anesthesiologist will inject general anesthesia to make you sleep during the procedure. They will also place a breathing tube into your windpipe
• Your cardiologist will remove the target blood vessels from your leg, arm or chest. This step is known as the harvesting g of graft vessels
• An incision is made in the center of your chest and separates your sternum to get access into the heart. Your cardiologist will also stop your heart temporarily from beating at this point. The stage is known as the incision and opening
• A cardiologist will place you on a cardiopulmonary bypass; connect you to a machine that takes over the heart and lung process. All surgeries do not need the use of this bypass
• A cardiologist will attach the new graft vessels to either side of the blockages to divert the blood flow. This step is known as grafting
• They will remove the cardiopulmonary bypass if needed and assess the blood flow to check the blood is flowing correctly through the grafted blood vessel. This step is known as restoring the blood flow of the heart
• After checking the blood flow through the graft, cardiologists will fix your sternum with metal wires and they will see up the incision site.

The procedure may take 3 to 6 hours to complete, but it varies depending on the number of bypasses needed. After the procedure, you will be shifted to an intensive care unit.

What Are The Complications Of Bypass Surgery?

The complications of heart bypass surgery include:

• Arrhythmias
• Infections
• Bleeding
• Confusions or delirium
• Kidney damage
• Stroke
• Heart attack

What Is The Difference Between Bypass Surgery And Open Heart Surgery?

Open heart surgery and bypass surgery are the most popular options for the most effective treatments for heart diseases.  Open heart surgery is performed by accessing the heart directly by making an incision through a patient’s chest, while bypass surgery involves creating alternate pathways to direct blood flow. Both open heart surgeries and bypass surgeries have their own benefits.  Therefore, medical professionals will decide which of the two surgeries is most suited for you depending on several factors like your underlying medical conditions, severity of the issue, type of disease, age and so on.

Conclusion:

Open heart surgery involves performing surgery by cutting the patient’s heart open through his chest. On the other hand, bypass surgery involves creating an alternate path to maintain blood flow while performing the surgery. As a result, doctors will determine which of the two procedures is best for you based on several parameters, including your age, the type of disease, the severity of the problem, and any underlying medical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):             

Q: Is it possible to lead a normal life after bypass surgery?

A: You will most likely feel tired most of the time throughout the first three to six weeks. This is a result of your body spending a lot of energy on self-healing. You should be able to resume most of your regular activities in six weeks, and you should be fully recovered by three months.

Q: Does open-heart surgery carry a high risk?

A: Open heart surgery is a significant procedure that needs to be closely watched and needs prompt post-operative care. After the procedure, it is typical for the patient to stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) for a few days in order to receive further treatment.

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a leading cause of heart-related health problems worldwide, significantly impacting the quality of life of those affected. Early detection and effective treatment of this condition are crucial in preventing severe complications, such as heart attacks. At GHC Hospital, we offer a comprehensive approach to the treatment of CAD, combining advanced diagnostics, personalized care, and cutting-edge treatment options. This blog will help you understand what CAD is, its symptoms, and the treatment options available at GHC Hospital.

What is Coronary Artery Disease?

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) occurs when the coronary arteries, which supply oxygenated blood to the heart muscle, become narrowed or blocked. This condition is primarily caused by the accumulation of fatty deposits, known as plaque, inside the arterial walls, a process called atherosclerosis. Over time, this plaque can harden, reducing blood flow to the heart and leading to chest pain, shortness of breath, or even a heart attack.

When the arteries become severely blocked, the heart muscle may not get enough oxygen, which can result in chest pain or angina pain. If left untreated, CAD can cause irreversible damage to the heart muscle, ultimately leading to a heart attack or heart failure.

Understanding the progression of coronary artery disease is critical for its early intervention. Early detection allows for the use of treatment options that can reduce symptoms and prevent complications, such as heart attacks.

Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease: What to Look For

The symptoms of coronary artery disease can vary from person to person, but some of the most common ones include:

1. Chest Pain (Angina): One of the hallmark symptoms of CAD, chest pain often occurs when the heart doesn’t get enough oxygen-rich blood. The pain can feel like pressure, tightness, or heaviness in the chest, and may radiate to the shoulders, arms, neck, or jaw.
2. Shortness of Breath: As the heart’s ability to pump blood diminishes, it can lead to feelings of breathlessness, especially during physical activity or exertion.
3. Fatigue: Inadequate blood supply to the heart can make you feel unusually tired or fatigued, especially during physical exertion.
4. Heart Attack Symptoms: If the blockage is severe enough, it can lead to a heart attack. The symptoms of a heart attack include severe chest pain, pain radiating to the left arm, back, or jaw, cold sweats, nausea, and dizziness.

Other symptoms may include dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, and cold sweats. It’s important to recognize the early warning signs of heart disease to seek help before the condition progresses to more severe stages.

Heart Disease Diagnosis: How GHC Hospital Helps

Diagnosing Coronary Artery Disease early is vital in preventing complications like heart attacks. At GHC Hospital, we offer comprehensive heart disease screenings and diagnostic tests to evaluate the severity of CAD. Our diagnostic procedures include:

1. Coronary Angiogram: A coronary angiogram is an imaging procedure that uses X-rays and a special dye to visualize the coronary arteries. This helps to identify areas of coronary artery blockage and determine the severity of the disease.
2. Cardiac Catheterization: This procedure involves inserting a thin tube (catheter) into a blood vessel in the arm or leg and threading it to the coronary arteries. It helps to assess the flow of blood through the arteries and identify blockages or abnormalities.
3. Stress Testing: Stress tests help assess how well the heart functions under physical stress. This is particularly useful for diagnosing heart disease risk factors in patients who may not have clear symptoms.
4. Echocardiogram: This non-invasive ultrasound test allows cardiologists to visualize the heart’s structure and function, helping diagnose heart disease and the effects of CAD.

At GHC Hospital, cardiology consultations play a key role in diagnosing CAD. During a consultation, our experts review your medical history, conduct physical examinations, and determine the best diagnostic approach based on your symptoms and risk factors.

Treatment Options for Coronary Artery Disease

Once coronary artery disease is diagnosed, the next step is treatment. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the disease and the symptoms presented by the patient. Some of the most common treatment options for CAD include lifestyle changes, medications, interventional procedures, and surgery.

Lifestyle Modifications and Heart Disease Prevention

The first step in managing CAD is making lifestyle changes. Healthy heart lifestyle practices, such as adopting a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight, are crucial in managing CAD and preventing further progression of the disease.

Heart disease prevention strategies at GHC Hospital include:

• Eating a Heart-Healthy Diet: A diet low in saturated fats, cholesterol, and sodium helps manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of CAD. Incorporating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your meals is vital.
• Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity improves heart health by strengthening the heart muscle, reducing stress, and improving blood circulation.
• Quitting Smoking: Smoking accelerates the progression of atherosclerosis and contributes to artery narrowing. Quitting smoking significantly lowers the risk of heart disease.
• Stress Management: Chronic stress can raise blood pressure and contribute to heart disease. Stress-reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can improve heart health.

Medications for CAD

In addition to lifestyle modifications, medications are often prescribed to manage symptoms and slow the progression of CAD. Common medications for heart disease treatment include:

• Statins: These medications lower cholesterol levels, preventing further plaque buildup in the arteries.
• Aspirin: Aspirin helps reduce the risk of blood clot formation and prevents blockages in the arteries.
• Beta-blockers: These medications reduce the heart’s workload, helping to prevent angina pain and reduce the risk of heart attacks.

Interventional Procedures: Angioplasty and Stenting

In some cases, lifestyle changes and medications may not be enough to manage CAD. Angioplasty treatment is a minimally invasive procedure used to open blocked or narrowed coronary arteries. A catheter with a balloon is inserted into the blocked artery, and the balloon is inflated to widen the artery and restore blood flow. After angioplasty, a coronary stent is often placed to keep the artery open and prevent it from narrowing again.

Surgical Treatment Options for CAD

When CAD is advanced or other treatments are not effective, heart bypass surgery may be necessary. This surgery involves creating a new route for blood to flow around blocked arteries, bypassing the obstruction and improving blood supply to the heart.

At GHC Hospital, we specialize in minimally invasive heart surgery, which uses smaller incisions and advanced techniques to reduce recovery time and minimize complications.

Heart Attack Prevention and Post-Surgery Care at GHC

Preventing a heart attack is the primary goal in treating CAD. At GHC Hospital, we provide comprehensive care to help patients recover after surgery and reduce the risk of future heart problems. Our post-surgery care for CAD includes personalized rehabilitation programs designed to help patients regain strength, improve cardiovascular fitness, and adopt a healthier lifestyle.

Our cardiac rehabilitation program focuses on exercise, nutrition counseling, stress management, and education to support long-term heart health

Why Choose GHC Hospital for CAD Treatment?

GHC Hospital is a leading healthcare facility in Thane with a team of experienced cardiologists and state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options for Coronary Artery Disease. We offer comprehensive care, from heart disease screenings at GHC to heart bypass surgery and cardiology consultations. Our team is committed to providing the highest quality care, focusing on prevention, early diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans for every patient.

Conclusion: Take Charge of Your Heart Health Today

If you experience symptoms of coronary artery disease, such as chest pain or shortness of breath, or if you have a family history of heart disease or other heart disease risk factors, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. At GHC Hospital, we provide the expertise and advanced technology to diagnose and treat CAD effectively, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.

By choosing GHC Hospital for your cardiology consultation and heart disease management, you’re taking the first step toward better heart health. Schedule an appointment with our expert cardiologists today and start your journey toward a healthier, heart-healthy life.