In transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), a new valve is fitted inside a narrowed aortic valve through a thin tube, usually from the groin, without opening the chest. Recovery tends to be faster than after open surgery. Dr Navin Chandra, consultant interventional cardiologist, assesses whether TAVI may suit you, with the Heart Team.
What Is Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation?
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation is a cardiac procedure that involves inserting an artificial valve through a catheter, typically via an artery in the groin. Unlike traditional open-heart surgery, TAVI does not require opening the chest or stopping the heart during the procedure. The new valve is carefully positioned inside the existing damaged valve, where it immediately begins functioning to improve blood flow from the heart.
This treatment traditionally addresses severe aortic stenosis, a condition where the aortic valve becomes narrowed and restricts the blood leaving the heart for the body. TAVI may be recommended when the risks of conventional surgery are considered too high. It may also be recommended when patients have other medical conditions that make traditional valve replacement challenging. TAVI can also be performed for a severely leaky aortic valve in appropriately selected patients.
The NHS guide to heart valve replacement compares TAVI with open surgery.
Fainting, Chest Pain or Severe Breathlessness: Getting Urgent Help
| Your symptom | Possible cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Struggling to breathe, choking, gasping or unable to speak | Severe valve disease | Call 999 or go to A&E |
| Sudden chest pain that spreads to the arms, back, neck or jaw, or lasts more than 15 minutes | A possible heart attack | Call 999 |
| Chest pain with shortness of breath or palpitations | A heart problem | Call 999 or go to A&E |
| After TAVI: redness, swelling or worsening pain where the tube went in, or a temperature over 38C | Possible wound infection | Contact the hospital team, or call NHS 111 |
Never drive yourself to hospital with these signs.
Conditions Treated With TAVI
TAVI primarily addresses severe aortic stenosis, a condition where calcium deposits or other factors cause the aortic valve leaflets to become thickened and stiff. This narrowing prevents the valve from opening properly, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood through the restricted opening.
The procedure may also be considered for patients with:
- Calcific aortic stenosis
- Failed previous aortic valve surgery
- Aortic regurgitation in specific cases
- Bicuspid aortic valve disease in selected cases, after Heart Team review
Patients who have previously undergone cardiac surgery or have multiple medical conditions that increase surgical risk may also be considered. TAVI may be an option when medicines alone no longer control symptoms.
Who May Be Suitable for TAVI?
TAVI may be suitable for patients with severe aortic stenosis who experience symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life. You may be considered for this treatment if you have:
- Severe shortness of breath during daily activities
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Dizziness or fainting episodes
- Reduced exercise tolerance
- Fatigue that limits normal activities
For shortness of breath on its own, see breathlessness.
This procedure may be particularly appropriate for patients for whom traditional open-heart surgery carries a high risk because of age, other medical conditions, or previous cardiac procedures. Dr Chandra will assess your individual circumstances to determine whether TAVI could be suitable for your specific situation. Your case will be put through a multi-disciplinary Heart Team meeting to gain a specialist consensus.
Possible Benefits of TAVI
TAVI may offer several potential advantages for suitable patients. Many patients experience improved symptoms relatively quickly after the procedure. Potential benefits may include:
- Reduced shortness of breath
- Improved exercise capacity
- Better quality of life
- A shorter hospital stay than open surgery
- A quicker return to daily activities than after open surgery
Individual results vary, and your cardiologist will discuss the expected benefits based on your specific condition and overall health status.
TAVI, Surgery or Medicines: Treatment Options for Severe Aortic Stenosis
Surgical Valve Replacement
A surgeon replaces the valve through the chest. NICE recommends surgery first when surgical risk is low or intermediate. The hospital stay is around a week, and recovery takes 2 to 3 months.
TAVI
NICE recommends TAVI, where suitable, when a non-bicuspid valve is severely narrowed and surgery is high risk or not possible. The stay is usually 2 to 3 days.
Medicines and Monitoring
Check-ups may be enough for mild disease. Medicines can ease symptoms but do not replace the valve.
Why Patients Choose Dr Chandra for Valve Treatment
- Training: interventional cardiology at Royal Brompton and Harefield, now an honorary post.
- Higher-risk patients: a BCIS International Fellowship in Canada centred on complex cases.
- Heart Team: every TAVI case is discussed first.
- NHS post: consultant cardiologist at Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust.
Qualifications: MBBS, BSc (Hons), MRCP (UK), MD (Res), FRCP (UK). He also leads cardiology teaching at Brunel Medical School as Specialty Lead. Read more about Dr Navin Chandra.
Assessment Before TAVI: Scans, Frailty and the Heart Team
Before TAVI treatment, you will undergo a full assessment to determine your suitability for the procedure. This evaluation typically includes a detailed medical history review, physical examination and frailty assessment. Dr Navin Chandra will discuss your symptoms, current medications, and any previous cardiac treatments.
Diagnostic tests may include:
- Echocardiogram to assess valve function
- CT scan to evaluate valve size and anatomy
- Cardiac catheterisation if required
- Blood tests and other investigations
The assessment process allows your cardiologist to determine whether TAVI is appropriate for your condition. It also allows them to discuss alternative treatment options, and explain the potential risks and benefits specific to your situation. See cardiac imaging for the scans.
What Happens on the Day of Your TAVI Procedure
TAVI is typically performed in a specialised cardiac catheterisation laboratory or hybrid operating theatre. The procedure usually takes place under local anaesthetic with sedation, though general anaesthetic may be used in some cases.
During the procedure, a small cut is made, usually in the upper thigh, to reach the femoral artery. Some people have the tube placed near the collarbone instead. A catheter system is then guided through the blood vessels to the heart. The new valve, which is compressed onto a balloon or self-expanding frame, is carefully positioned within the existing aortic valve. Once properly positioned, the new valve is deployed and immediately begins functioning.
The entire procedure typically takes between one to three hours, depending on the complexity of your individual case. Most patients remain awake during the procedure and can communicate with the medical team throughout. Some people feel pressure in the chest. Tell the team if you feel unwell.
Recovery, Aftercare and Risks After TAVI
Recovery from TAVI is generally faster than traditional open-heart surgery. Most patients spend one to three days in hospital, with initial monitoring in a cardiac care unit. You will be encouraged to mobilise within hours of the procedure, and many patients notice symptom improvement relatively quickly. The BHF puts full recovery at 6 to 10 weeks.
Aftercare typically includes:
- Regular follow-up appointments
- Medication management, including medicine against clots
- Gradual return to normal activities
- Cardiac rehabilitation if recommended
- Long-term monitoring of valve function
Dr Chandra will give you specific advice on returning to work, driving, and other activities, based on how your recovery progresses.
Like all medical procedures, TAVI carries potential risks that will be discussed during your consultation. Possible complications may include bleeding, stroke, heart rhythm disturbances, or vascular complications. The BHF adds bruising, infection and blood clots. If an irregular heartbeat does not settle, the NHS notes that a pacemaker may be needed. The risk of these complications varies depending on your individual health status and other factors.
TAVI may not be suitable for all patients with aortic stenosis. Your cardiologist will carefully evaluate whether the potential benefits outweigh the risks in your specific situation and discuss alternative treatment options if TAVI is not appropriate.
Where Dr Chandra Sees Patients About TAVI
| Hospital | Address |
|---|---|
| The Parkside Suite, Heatherwood Hospital | Brook Ave, Ascot SL5 7GB |
| The Parkside Suite, Wexham Park Hospital | Wexham, Slough, Berkshire SL2 4HL |
| BMI Princess Margaret Hospital | Osborne Road, Windsor, Berkshire SL4 3SJ |
| Spire Thames Valley Hospital | Wexham Street, Wexham, Buckinghamshire SL3 6NH |
TAVI itself is carried out at [hospital where Dr Chandra performs TAVI]. For clinic days, ring 020 7099 9685 or email enquiries@navinchandra.co.uk with your question. Outside clinic times, use NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency.
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Fees and Insurance
| Appointment | Fee |
|---|---|
| Consultation and assessment | Confirmed when you book |
| TAVI, including hospital fees | Confirmed after your assessment |
Fees for 2026 are confirmed at booking, and the procedure once tests are done.
- Insured: get pre-authorisation first. Insurers include Cigna, Bupa, Healix, AXA Health, WPA, Aviva and Vitality.
- Self-pay: the full cost is set out before you decide.
- NHS: TAVI is also offered on the NHS. Dr Chandra, a Frimley Health consultant, can explain both routes.
FAQs About TAVI and Aortic Valve Replacement
How long does the TAVI procedure take?
The procedure typically takes one to three hours, depending on the complexity of your individual case.
How long will I stay in hospital after TAVI?
Most patients stay in hospital for one to three days after TAVI, with initial monitoring in a cardiac care unit.
When can I get back to normal activities?
Recovery varies between patients, but many people can gradually return to normal activities within a few weeks. Your cardiologist will provide specific guidance based on your progress.
How do I know if TAVI is right for me?
Suitability depends on various factors including the severity of your aortic stenosis, overall health, and surgical risk. A full assessment will determine whether TAVI may be appropriate for you.
Is TAVI an operation?
No. It is a catheter procedure and the chest stays closed. Read more in is TAVI a surgery.
How long does a TAVI valve last?
Nobody knows yet for certain, the BHF says, but most TAVI valves still work well 6 years on.
How long does full recovery take after TAVI?
Most people go home within 1 to 2 days and recover fully in 6 to 10 weeks.
Can I drive after TAVI?
Driving stops for a period after TAVI. Under GOV.UK rules, the DVLA must be told about aortic stenosis that can cause dizziness or blackouts, or that your doctor thinks may affect driving.
Book a TAVI Consultation with Dr Navin Chandra
- Phone: 020 7099 9685
- Email: enquiries@navinchandra.co.uk
- Online: the booking form, in person or by video
Call 999 if breathing becomes very hard, or chest pain lasts 15 minutes or more. NHS 111 handles other urgent questions.
For an introduction, read what is TAVI. Narrowed heart arteries are treated differently, with percutaneous coronary intervention.