TEVAR and TAVI
TEVAR (thoracic endovascular aortic repair) is a procedure used to treat an aneurysm in the upper aorta. The aorta is the largest artery in your body. An aneurysm is a weak, bulging section of the aorta’s wall. It can be deadly if it bursts.
TEVAR is a minimally invasive surgical procedure. It is done through a small cut (incision). TEVAR uses a device known as a stent graft to reinforce the aneurysm. A stent graft is a fabric-covered metal tube. It aids in preventing the aneurysm from bursting.
Why would you require a TEVAR?
The aorta is the largest artery in your body. It is responsible for transporting oxygen-rich blood from your heart to the rest of your body. It travels from your heart to your chest and into your stomach (abdomen). It then divides into blood vessels, which supply blood to your legs.
A weak area of the aorta may bulge out at times. This is known as an aortic aneurysm. Aortic aneurysms are dangerous because they can rupture. As the aneurysm grows in size, the risk of rupture increases. Treatment is determined by the size of the aneurysm. Treatment is also determined by how quickly the aneurysm grows.
TEVAR may be recommended by Dr. Dhir and his team to repair an aneurysm in the aorta in your chest. This is known as the thoracic area.
Risks Associated with TEVAR
As with other surgeries, patients may see some complications with TEVAR. Here they are:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Injury to other organs
- Anesthesia risks
- Blood clots
- Leaking graft and more
Other risks may exist depending on your specific medical condition. Before the procedure, make sure to discuss any concerns you have with Dr. Udegeath Dhir or his team.
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TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation)
By replacing an aortic valve that isn’t opening fully, a popular treatment called TAVI can increase blood flow in the heart.
After undergoing TAVI, many people see an improvement in their quality of life and a reduction in symptoms including breathlessness and chest pain. After a TAVI operation, the majority of patients can resume their regular lifestyles in a matter of weeks.
To what extent are TAVI procedures successful?
After a TAVI operation, most patients find that their symptoms improve and that they can do more in their daily lives. A lower percentage of patients may experience post-TAVI problems. However, your cardiac condition and general health will determine the risk.
By adopting healthy lifestyle modifications, you can lower your risk of TAVI and increase your chances of long-term success. You can opt for:
- Consuming a healthier diet
- Increasing physical activity
- Quitting smoking
- Reducing alcohol consumption
- Taking medication as directed
If you or your loved one is seeking assistance regarding TEVAR or TAVI surgery, know that Dr. Udgeath and his team are just a call away.
Frequently Asked Questions
You will stay in a recovery room for several hours following the treatment. Your breathing and heart rate will be monitored by your healthcare staff. You might have to lie flat for a few hours following the treatment to assist in stopping bleeding.
You should plan to spend at least three to four days in the hospital following surgery.
Compared to open surgery, TEVAR requires less recovery time for aortic aneurysms. However, take at least four weeks off from hard activity or discuss with the team of Dr Udgeath Dhir.
Before we can state with certainty how long TAVI valves usually last, more research is required. The majority of patients will still have a functional TAVI valve six years after their operation. With the advancement of methods and technology, this should get better.