TAVI is a minimally invasive procedure
It is recommended for patients with severe aortic stenosis who are deemed ‘high-risk’ for open heart valve surgery. Although the procedure is getting safer, you should also be aware that there is a risk of death associated with this procedure.
Inevitably every procedure has risks associated with it, and here is an overview of known risks with TAVI:
- Development of a slow heartbeat which may result in needing a permanent pacemaker
- Damage to the artery in the groin. This can require a stent or occasionally an open operation
- Bleeding from the site of the valve or from any of the puncture sites, i.e catheter insertion point. There may be a need for a transfusion if blood loss is significant
- Reaction to substances introduced to the body, for example the anaesthetic and the dye used in X-rays
- Stroke: although this is usually small it can be significant and lead to disability
- There is a small risk of a heart attack or stroke during the procedure
- Infection
- Need for emergency open heart surgery. This could occur in exceptional circumstances and has a very high risk of death
You should discuss the risks of TAVI in your case with your cardiologist prior to any procedure
You will have the chance to decide whether it is the right procedure for you and you will be asked to sign a consent form to confirm you understand the risks involved.
