TAVI London: Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Specialist

TAVI, or transcatheter aortic valve implantation, is a minimally invasive procedure for aortic stenosis treatment that allows for the replacement of a narrowed aortic valve without the need for open-heart surgery. Also referred to as TAVR (transcatheter aortic valve replacement), this innovative technique delivers a new valve through a thin tube, typically inserted via an artery in the groin, while the heart continues to beat. The procedure is performed with the patient awake, using conscious sedation and local anaesthetic, making it a preferred option for many, including those under the care of Dr. Ozan Demir TAVI.

TAVI, or transcatheter aortic valve implantation, effectively treats severe aortic stenosis — a condition characterized by the narrowing of the aortic valve, which is the heart's primary outflow valve. This leads the heart to work harder over time. Aortic stenosis is the most prevalent valve disease in the UK, often resulting in symptoms like breathlessness, chest tightness, dizziness, or blackouts. Once these symptoms surface, the prognosis without valve replacement is poor. It's crucial to note that no medication alters the progression or prognosis of aortic stenosis; therefore, the only effective aortic stenosis treatment is to replace the valve. Dr Ozan Demir is among the specialists who perform this procedure.

TAVI, or transcatheter aortic valve implantation, requires careful assessment and planning to confirm it is the appropriate aortic stenosis treatment for you while ensuring the procedure is as safe as possible. The pathway begins with a consultation to review your symptoms and any investigations you have undergone thus far. Severe aortic stenosis is usually confirmed through a transthoracic echocardiogram, although further tests may occasionally be necessary. The procedure is meticulously planned using a dedicated TAVI CT scan, which is typically arranged soon after your initial consultation. This scan allows the valve size, delivery route, and each step of the procedure to be mapped out precisely. Additionally, a coronary assessment is conducted when required—you can read more on the coronary angiography page. Dr. Ozan Demir specializes in the TAVI procedure to help patients navigate this process.

Every patient is discussed at a specialist multidisciplinary meeting, known as the Heart Team, which brings together cardiologists and cardiac surgeons. The purpose is straightforward: to recommend the safest and most effective aortic stenosis treatment for you and to plan it in detail.

Broadly, there are three possible recommendations. For many patients, Dr. Ozan Demir advocates for TAVI, or transcatheter aortic valve implantation, as the preferred option. For some patients, often younger individuals or those with specific anatomical considerations, conventional surgical valve replacement may be the more suitable choice. In rare cases, if the risks of any intervention are deemed prohibitive, supportive drug treatment is recommended instead, acknowledging that while medication can control symptoms, it does not alter the disease's progression. Regardless of the recommendation, Dr. Demir will clearly explain the reasoning and address any questions you may have.

Replacing a severely narrowed aortic valve through aortic stenosis treatment options like TAVI or surgery relieves symptoms, enhances quality of life, and extends life expectancy. Large clinical trials have demonstrated that transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) achieves outcomes comparable to surgical valve replacement in most patient groups, often with a quicker recovery. Some patients experience improved breathing almost immediately, while others find that their benefits increase over the subsequent weeks as their activity levels resume.

No procedure is without risk. During your consultation, you will receive an initial estimate of your risks, and after completing the TAVI CT, a detailed assessment specific to your anatomy will be provided. This assessment covers various risks, including vascular complications, the potential need for a pacemaker, stroke, and, in rare cases, more serious events. Information is delivered both face-to-face and in writing, allowing time for you and your family to ask questions prior to making your decision. Dr. Ozan Demir emphasizes the importance of understanding these factors in your aortic stenosis treatment.

The aortic stenosis treatment is usually performed under sedation with a local anaesthetic, and occasionally under general anaesthetic — this decision is made in consultation with Dr Ozan Demir and the anaesthetist beforehand. During the transcatheter aortic valve implantation, a valve made of cow or pig heart tissue is mounted on a metal stent frame. This valve is delivered through the femoral artery in the groin and expanded within your own aortic valve, immediately taking over its function. The entire procedure takes around an hour. Most patients are up and walking the same day or the following morning, and typically return home within 1–3 nights, depending on their individual circumstances.

After undergoing a transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) as part of the aortic stenosis treatment, you will usually be advised to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for a short period while the groin heals. A follow-up echocardiogram will confirm that the new valve, performed by Dr. Ozan Demir, is functioning well. Most patients will take antiplatelet medication, such as aspirin, afterwards, tailored to their circumstances. Modern TAVI valves are known for their excellent durability, with long-term studies showing that they can function well beyond ten years.

Dr. Ozan Demir is a Consultant Interventional and Structural Cardiologist with a subspecialty focus on aortic stenosis treatment and transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). He trained at prestigious London hospitals, including St Thomas’ and Hammersmith, and completed advanced structural intervention training at San Raffaele Hospital in Milan, one of Europe's highest-volume valve centres. Dr. Demir holds a PhD from King's College London and leads active research in aortic stenosis. He performs TAVI procedures regularly, often several times a week, at the Essex Cardiothoracic Centre. Additionally, he provides private TAVI services at leading London hospitals, including the Cromwell and Wellington Hospitals.

If you are experiencing symptoms like breathlessness, chest tightness, or blackouts, or if you have aortic stenosis or a heart murmur, it is important to seek a specialist assessment. Contact Ms. Melinda Ziff (PA) at 020 3198 9826 or drozandemir.sec@outlook.com to discuss aortic stenosis treatment options and learn more about Dr. Ozan Demir's expertise in transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).