Cardiology

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) in India

Expert, minimally invasive aortic valve replacement for high-risk patients, coordinated by VRH Healthcare.

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Understanding Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) in India

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI), also known as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), is a minimally invasive procedure to replace a diseased aortic valve. It is primarily offered to patients with severe aortic stenosis who are considered high-risk for traditional open-heart surgery. Instead of a large incision, a new artificial valve is delivered to the heart via a catheter, typically inserted through an artery in the leg. This advanced cardiology procedure aims to restore proper blood flow from the heart, significantly improving symptoms and quality of life for suitable candidates.

Types / Variants of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI)

Transfemoral Approach

The most common method, where the catheter is inserted through an artery in the groin.

Transapical Approach

Involves a small incision in the chest, with the catheter inserted directly into the heart's apex.

Transaortic Approach

A small incision in the upper chest allows direct access to the aorta for catheter insertion.

Subclavian/Axillary Approach

The catheter is inserted through an artery in the shoulder or arm, an alternative access site.

Your surgeon explains why a particular approach is recommended for you.

Technology & Techniques

In India, Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) may be performed using:

Self-expanding prosthetic valves (e.g., CoreValve, Evolut)

Balloon-expandable prosthetic valves (e.g., SAPIEN)

Advanced catheter delivery systems

Real-time fluoroscopy imaging

Transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE)

Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS)

3D CT angiography for pre-procedural planning

Benefits

Minimally invasive, avoiding open-heart surgery.
Faster recovery times and shorter hospital stays compared to traditional surgery.
Reduced pain and scarring.
Suitable for elderly patients or those with multiple co-morbidities.
Significant improvement in symptoms of aortic stenosis.
Potential for enhanced quality of life post-procedure.

Limitations

Not suitable for all patients; careful selection is crucial.
Potential for vascular complications at the access site.
Risk of paravalvular leak (blood leaking around the new valve).
Higher incidence of new pacemaker implantation compared to surgical AVR.
Long-term durability data is still evolving compared to surgical valve replacement.
Requires highly specialised cardiac teams and infrastructure.

Diagnostics & Pre-Arrival Work-Up

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE)

Transoesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)

Cardiac CT Angiography (Aorta, Femoral, Subclavian arteries)

Coronary Angiogram (if coronary artery disease is suspected)

Blood tests (full blood count, renal function, liver function, coagulation profile)

Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs)

Carotid Doppler study

Share reports securely for review and opinion

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Pre-Arrival & Travel Checklist

Comprehensive medical records and imaging reports (translated to English)

Valid passport and medical visa for India

Detailed pre-surgery instructions (medications, fasting, activity restrictions)

Confirmation of accommodation and airport pickup arrangements

Post-discharge recovery plan and tele-review schedule with your VRH coordinator

How the Procedure is Done (Step-by-Step)

Patient Preparation

The patient receives local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia. The access site, typically the groin, is sterilised and prepared.

Catheter Insertion & Guidance

A small incision is made, and a catheter is inserted into an artery (usually femoral). It is then carefully guided to the heart under imaging guidance.

Valve Delivery

The new artificial valve, compressed onto the catheter, is advanced through the aorta to the site of the diseased aortic valve.

Valve Deployment

Once precisely positioned, the new valve is deployed. It expands, pushing aside the old valve leaflets and taking over their function.

Assessment & Closure

Dr Shiv Kumar Choudhary is Executive Director CTVS at Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, New Delhi with 32+ years’ experience in complex aortic, valve, transplant and cardiac surgery.

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Expected Outcomes & What Success Means

Significant improvement in heart function and efficient blood flow.

Marked reduction in symptoms like shortness of breath and chest pain.

Enhanced quality of life, allowing for increased daily activity.

Reduced risk of heart failure and other severe cardiac complications.

Potential for increased life expectancy in carefully selected patients.

Successful implantation of a well-functioning prosthetic valve.

Recovery & Follow-Up Timeline

Immediate Post-Procedure (1-2 days)Patients are closely monitored in an intensive care or recovery unit. Early mobilisation is encouraged, and pain is managed effectively.

Hospital Stay (3-7 days)Gradual increase in activity, wound care, and medication management. Discharge planning and patient education are key during this period.

First Few Weeks Post-Discharge (2-4 weeks)Rest is crucial; avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities. Adhere strictly to medication regimens and attend initial follow-up appointments.

Long-Term Recovery (Months)Cardiac rehabilitation may be recommended. Regular follow-ups with a cardiologist are essential to monitor valve function and overall heart health.

Fitness to fly and activity limits are centre-specific.

How Quickly Can I Start?

Step 1

Second Opinion

12-48 hours

Typically received after sharing medical reports.

Step 2

Medical Visa & Travel Planning

1-3 weeks

Processing time for visa invitation letters and travel arrangements.

Step 3

Hospital Admission & Pre-Op

1-2 days post-arrival

For final diagnostics, consultations, and procedure preparation.

Step 4

Procedure Scheduling

Variable

Depends on hospital availability, clinical priority, and patient readiness.

Request timelines and estimates

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Costs & What Affects Your Estimate

Type and brand of prosthetic valve usedChoice of hospital (e.g., multi-speciality vs. cardiac-specific, tier 1 vs. tier 2)Surgeon's experience and reputationLength of hospital stay, including ICU daysAny pre-existing medical conditions or complications during recoveryNumber and type of diagnostic tests requiredPost-operative medication and rehabilitation needs

This page provides an overview of typical costs and influencing factors. A personalised cost estimate is shared after a medical review of your reports—please contact us to request your individual estimate.

Request an estimate

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How VRH Healthcare Helps

VRH Healthcare is not a hospital. We act as your medical facilitation and patient-navigation partner, helping you make informed decisions and move smoothly through care in India.

Independent second opinions (even if you already have an estimate)

Thorough review of medical records and reports by specialists

Shortlisting appropriate hospitals and highly experienced surgeons for TAVI

Efficient appointment scheduling and clear care timelines

Assistance with medical visa invitation letters (VILs)

Arrangement of airport pickup, local transport, and accommodation near hospitals

Provision of language interpreters and dedicated on-ground assistance

Transparent, indicative cost estimates based on medical review

Coordinated post-discharge tele-follow-ups to ensure continuity of care

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International Patient Services

Medical visa invitation letters for you and your accompanying family

Seamless airport transfers and comfortable local transport

Arrangement of suitable accommodation near the hospital

Professional language interpreters (Arabic, Russian, French, English, and more)

Efficient appointment coordination and regular updates for family members

Post-discharge follow-ups via tele-consultation to monitor recovery

Start with an opinion

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Your Care Journey with VRH

A simplified step-by-step guide to your treatment experience.

1Step 01

Share medical reports for expert review

2Step 02

Receive an expert second opinion and indicative estimate

3Step 03

Plan travel, visa, and appointments with our assistance

4Step 04

Undergo treatment in India with dedicated on-ground coordination

5Step 05

Experience smooth discharge and ongoing tele-follow-ups

Step 01

Share medical reports for expert review

Step 02

Receive an expert second opinion and indicative estimate

Step 03

Plan travel, visa, and appointments with our assistance

Step 04

Undergo treatment in India with dedicated on-ground coordination

Step 05

Experience smooth discharge and ongoing tele-follow-ups

You can request a second opinion at any stage—even if you already have an estimate.

Where We Serve: Countries We Support

Middle East

Saudi ArabiaOmanBahrainUAEYemenIraq

Language support, visa assistance, and coordinated care planning for TAVI.

Africa

NigeriaKenyaTanzaniaEthiopiaGhanaAngolaMozambiqueUgandaSudanChadGuinea

Support for diagnostics review, travel planning, and post-treatment follow-up.

Central Asia & CIS

KazakhstanUzbekistanKyrgyzstanTajikistanRussia

Interpretation services and hospital coordination for surgical care.

South Asia

BangladeshNepalMaldivesSri LankaAfghanistan

Quick access to opinions, scheduling, and continuity of care.

U.K. & USA

Second opinions, cost-sensitive planning, and post-return tele-follow-ups.

Other Countries

Customised support based on individual travel and care needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is a suitable candidate for TAVI?

TAVI is typically recommended for patients with severe aortic stenosis who are considered high-risk or unsuitable for traditional open-heart surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) due to age, other medical conditions, or frailty. A comprehensive evaluation by a multidisciplinary heart team determines suitability.

What are the potential risks associated with TAVI?

While generally safe, TAVI carries risks such as vascular complications at the access site, stroke, kidney injury, bleeding, infection, and the need for a permanent pacemaker. Your cardiology team will discuss these risks in detail.

How long does a TAVI procedure typically take?

The TAVI procedure itself usually takes between 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the case and the specific approach used. This does not include preparation and recovery time in the operating theatre.

What is the difference between TAVI and surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR)?

SAVR is an open-heart surgery requiring a large incision and stopping the heart. TAVI is a minimally invasive procedure where a new valve is delivered via a catheter, typically through an artery, without opening the chest. TAVI offers faster recovery but SAVR may be preferred for lower-risk patients.

Will I need a pacemaker after TAVI?

Some patients may require a permanent pacemaker after TAVI due to changes in the heart's electrical conduction system caused by the new valve. The incidence varies depending on the valve type and individual patient factors, but it is a known potential complication.

How long does the new TAVI valve last?

The long-term durability of TAVI valves is still being studied, but current data suggests they are highly durable, with many lasting 10 years or more. Regular follow-up with your cardiologist is essential to monitor valve function.

What kind of follow-up care is needed after TAVI?

Post-TAVI care involves regular check-ups with your cardiologist, typically including echocardiograms to monitor valve function. You will also need to take antiplatelet medication for a period and may be advised to participate in cardiac rehabilitation.

Why consider TAVI in India?

India offers world-class TAVI procedures performed by highly skilled structural heart teams, often at a significantly lower cost than in many Western countries, without compromising on quality or technology. VRH Healthcare helps you access these leading facilities.

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