The decision to recommend TAVI for a person with severe aortic stenosis will be made by a team of specialists at a cardiac centre
To help them assess your condition and determine the best treatment, you may need the following screening tests:
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A physical examination
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Blood tests
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A chest X-ray (CXR)
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An electrocardiogram (ECG). Small sensors are placed on the body and the ECG equipment records electrical signals from your heart. It determines whether the heart is short of oxygen or is damaged
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An echocardiogram of the chest. This techniques uses ultrasound to actually see the heart working in real time. A sensor is placed firmly against the skin on the chest and moved around to build up an image of the heart
- A transoesophageal echocardiogram (TOE). Necessary only if a more detailed picture of your aortic valve is required. It involves swallowing a small ultrasound probe, and you’ll be under sedation during the test
- An angiogram. This test takes X-ray images of the arteries around your heart and in your groin. It involves inserting a tube (catheter) into your wrist or groin artery
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CT (or computerised tomography) scan produces computer generated images from an X-ray scan
Which tests you’ll need will be confirmed by your consultant cardiologist or doctor – they will also be able to answer your questions around these tests.
