Both leakage (regurgitation) and narrowing (stenosis)of the aortic valve, are common and causes similar symptoms as shown below. Our cardiologists and can see you and assess this with an echocardiogram scan. In younger patients needing valve replacement then open-heart surgery (surgical aortic valve replacement) is often the gold standard treatment. However, in more elderly or complex patients with aortic valve disease then Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) otherwise called Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) may be more appropriate.
TAVI offers an alternative to conventional open-heart surgery for many patients and has become an established treatment option for suitable individuals with symptomatic aortic valve disease. The procedure allows a new valve to be implanted without removing the existing diseased valve. TAVI is not always technically possible with pure isolated aortic regurgitation. Both TAVI and conventional cardiac surgery can be done at Southampton Spire. Our current cardiology consultants that do TAVI are Dr John Rawlins and Dr Simon Corbett. TAVI procedures are complex and always need two TAVI consultant cardiologists, as well as a consultant anaesthetist.
This image (courtesy of Edwards Lifesciences) shows an Edwards Lifesciences Sapien 3 transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) device for the treatment of patients diagnosed with aortic stenosis, this is one example of a valve our consultants use on a regular basis for TAVI at Southampton.
What Is Aortic Stenosis?
Aortic stenosis occurs when the aortic valve becomes stiff and narrowed, making it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively. Over time, this can place significant strain on the heart muscle and lead to symptoms such as:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain or tightness
- Dizziness or fainting
- Fatigue
- Reduced exercise capacity
Without treatment, severe symptomatic aortic stenosis can significantly affect quality of life and long-term health.
How Does TAVI Work?
During the procedure, a replacement valve mounted on a catheter is guided through a blood vessel, most commonly via the artery in the groin.
Once positioned within the diseased aortic valve, the new valve is expanded into place, immediately taking over the function of regulating blood flow from the heart.
The procedure is performed using advanced imaging guidance and does not usually require open-heart surgery.
Benefits of TAVI
- Minimally invasive approach
- Shorter recovery times compared with surgical valve replacement
- Reduced hospital stay for many patients
- Effective relief of symptoms
- Improved quality of life and functional capacity
Who May Be Suitable for TAVI?
Suitability is determined following a comprehensive assessment by a multidisciplinary heart team, taking into account factors such as valve anatomy, overall health, age and medical history.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Most patients experience improvement in symptoms within weeks of treatment. Following discharge, ongoing monitoring ensures the new valve continues to function effectively and supports long-term heart health.
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Please note that with increased demand, and long NHS waits, our services and office are under more demand than ever. As a result our staff are exceptionally busy and often working under great pressure.