An introduction of TAVI

Model: Aortic Valve Model (XXK005D)

The aortic valve typically opens to allow blood to flow from the heart to the rest of the body. Aortic stenosis is a medical condition characterized by the inability of the aortic valve to open and close effectively. This dysfunction places additional stress on the heart and may lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, swollen ankles, chest discomfort, dizziness, and, in some cases, fainting spells.

For individuals experiencing issues with the aortic valve, the standard treatment is open-heart valve surgery. However, for those who are severely ill or have multiple other health concerns, the risks associated with open-heart surgery may be deemed too high.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a minimally invasive procedure that facilitates the placement of a new aortic valve via a slender tube known as a catheter. Typically, the catheter is introduced through a major blood vessel in the groin or through a small incision in the chest.

The transcatheter aortic valves used in this procedure are specifically engineered for such applications. These valves are constructed from biological tissue sourced from the hearts of cows or pigs. The natural tissue is modified and affixed to a flexible, expandable mesh framework. To implant the valve, it is compressed around or within the catheter. The catheter is then navigated to the aortic valve site in the heart, where the new valve is positioned over the existing one. Following the successful implantation, the catheter is withdrawn, and the new valve begins to function immediately.