Heart valve replacement surgery is a procedure to replace a damaged or dysfunctional heart valve with an artificial or biological valve. This surgery is critical when one or more heart valves do not function properly, causing heart complications where the heart valves are unable to regulate blood flow efficiently, causing stress on the heart. The two primary methods of valve replacement include surgical heart valve replacement and the less invasive Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), also known as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI).

What is TAVI/TAVR?

TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation) or TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement) is a minimally invasive procedure to replace a diseased aortic valve in the heart. This approach is typically recommended for patients who are at high or intermediate risk for open-heart surgery. Unlike traditional surgery, TAVR is performed by the Best Heart Valve Replacement surgeons, intervention cardiologist using a catheter inserted through a small incision in the chest, without requiring a large chest incision or cardiopulmonary bypass.

Who all need a Heart Valve Replacement Surgery?

Heart valve replacement surgery, including TAVI/TAVR, is generally recommended for individuals who experience any of the following issues.

1. Severe Aortic StenosisWhen the aortic valve becomes too narrow, limiting blood flow. It causes the heart to work harder.
2. Aortic Valve RegurgitationA condition where the valve doesn't close properly, causing blood to leak backward into the heart.
3. High Risk for Open-Heart SurgeryPatients who are elderly, frail, or have other medical conditions that increase the risk of traditional open-heart surgery.

Symptoms

Patients experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, fatigue, or irregular heartbeats are generally recommended for valve replacement. A cardiologist will perform tests like echocardiograms and cardiac catheterization to determine whether the valve is functioning properly and if TAVI/TAVR is appropriate.

Alarming Situations

There are certain warning signs or symptoms that indicate a severe heart valve problem, which may necessitate immediate medical evaluation and possibly heart valve replacement surgery:

1. Severe Shortness of BreathDifficulty breathing, especially during physical activity or even at rest, can indicate that the heart is struggling to pump blood effectively.
2. Chest Pain or AnginaPain or pressure in the chest is often a sign of restricted blood flow, especially if it occurs during activity or when under stress.
3. Fainting or DizzinessSudden loss of consciousness or frequent dizziness can signal that the brain is not getting enough blood, which may be due to valve dysfunction.
4. Palpitations/Irregular HeartbeatsIf you constantly feel that your heart skip beats or races, it may indicate the heart is struggling to compensate for faulty valves
5. Swelling in the ankles, feet or abdomenEdema (swelling) can be a sign of heart failure, as blood may back up into the veins if the heart is unable to pump properly.
6. Fatigue and WeaknessFeeling excessively tired or weak after minimal exertion could be a symptom of a severe heart valve disorder, where the heart cannot keep up with the body’s demand for oxygen.
7. Heart MurmurDetected during a routine check-up, a heart murmur is an unusual sound heard between heartbeats, often due to abnormal blood flow caused by a defective valve.

Primary benefits of TAVI/TAVR

Minimally invasive: No need for large chest incisions, reducing trauma and scars

Faster recovery: Shorter hospital stays and quicker return to daily activities.

Lower risk of complications: This is especially beneficial for high-risk patients, including the elderly. It causes lesser pain and discomfort compared to open-heart surgery.

Time taken by a TAVI/TAVR procedure

The TAVI/TAVR procedure generally takes about 1-2 hours. However, the total time spent in the hospital may vary depending on the patient’s recovery. Most patients are discharged within 3 to 5 days, and the recovery is quicker than traditional surgery. Within a week, most can resume light activities, and normal daily activities are typically possible within a month. However, recovery varies, and your healthcare team will provide detailed post-operative care instructions.

Risks associated

As with any/every medical procedure, TAVI/TAVR carries some risks, including:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Stroke
• Blood vessel complications
• Valve leakage (paravalvular leak)

Is TAVI/TAVR available in Faridabad, India?

Yes, Heart Valve Replacement surgery in Faridabad, India, including TAVI/TAVR procedures, is available at Accord multi-speciality hospital. This healthcare facility in Faridabad is equipped with state-of-the-art technologies and experienced cardiac surgeons who specialize in minimally invasive heart surgeries. Patients from India and abroad seek heart valve replacement treatments or TAVR treatment in faridabad, India due to the high standard of care and affordable costs.

How can I consult a cardiac specialist in Faridabad for heart valve replacement surgery?

To consult a cardiac specialist for heart valve replacement surgery in Faridabad, India, you can:

• Schedule an appointment at Accord hospital, Faridabad cardiac center.
• Obtain a referral from your primary healthcare provider
• Contact the hospital directly to arrange a consultation with a Cardiologist who specializes in TAVI/TAVR procedures.

Accord hospital, Faridabad also offers teleconsultations for international patients or those seeking a second opinion before traveling for treatments. Accord provides you comprehensive information about heart valve replacement surgery in Faridabad, India, with a focus on the TAVI/TAVR procedure. Their healthcare providers can be consulted for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your condition.