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Aortic Valve Stenosis — TAVI Eligibility

Patient assessment for transcatheter aortic valve implantation in severe aortic stenosis.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Aortic Valve Stenosis — TAVI Eligibility?

Severe aortic stenosis is defined echocardiographically by a valve area below 1.0 cm², a mean gradient above 40 mmHg or a peak velocity above 4 m/s. Once symptoms appear, mortality without intervention is high.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is now an established alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement, particularly in patients with high or intermediate surgical risk, advanced age or significant comorbidity. Recent trials extend eligibility to selected lower-risk patients.

Eligibility is decided by a multidisciplinary heart team that assesses the STS score, frailty, vascular access, valve anatomy on cardiac CT and life expectancy.

Symptoms

Exertional chest pain (angina)
Syncope or pre-syncope
Exertional dyspnea and fatigue
Heart failure symptoms
Severe AS on echocardiography
STS risk score above 4% or significant frailty

Risk Factors

Advanced age (above 75 years)
Severe lung disease, prior chest radiation, porcelain aorta
Frailty and reduced functional capacity
Coronary artery disease
Chronic kidney disease
Bicuspid aortic valve (selected anatomy)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Symptomatic severe aortic stenosis on echocardiography
  • High or intermediate surgical risk for SAVR
  • Heart team referral for valve replacement decision
  • Pre-procedure cardiac CT and coronary angiography

Treatment Methods

01
Heart team evaluation (cardiologist, cardiac surgeon, imaging specialist)
02
Cardiac CT for annulus sizing and vascular access planning
03
Transfemoral TAVI when iliofemoral access is suitable (preferred route)
04
Alternative access (transapical, transaxillary, transcaval) if needed
05
Balloon-expandable or self-expanding bioprosthetic valves
06
Lifelong antiplatelet therapy and routine echocardiographic follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.