Best TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement) doctors in Bengaluru

Aortic stenosis is a heart valve condition where the aortic valve opening narrows significantly. The aortic valve controls blood leaving the main heart chamber. Over time, calcium deposits make the valve leaflets stiff. This narrowing forces the heart muscle to pump much harder. Reduced blood flow eventually causes weakness and chest discomfort. Medical evaluation determines whether valve replacement is necessary for long-term health.

Severe aortic stenosis causes shortness of breath, chest tightness, dizziness, and physical fatigue. Some individuals experience fainting spells when narrowed valves severely restrict arterial blood flow. Swollen ankles and irregular heartbeats also occur as heart muscle strain increases. Anyone experiencing these symptoms requires urgent evaluation by a trained cardiologist. Early medical assessment helps prevent further heart muscle damage over time.

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement substitutes a damaged heart valve using a thin catheter tube. Traditional open surgery requires opening the chest wall and stopping heart function temporarily. Catheter access through blood vessels avoids major chest incisions and reduces tissue trauma. Patients experience shorter hospital stays and faster physical recovery compared to open surgery. This modern procedure provides a lower-risk option for elderly or frail individuals.

Patients complete a computed tomography scan and an echocardiogram before valve procedures. A computed tomography scan provides detailed cross-sectional imaging of pelvic and thoracic arteries. An echocardiogram uses ultrasound sound waves to measure valve stiffness and blood speed. Diagnostic imaging allows structural heart teams to select precise replacement valve dimensions. Clear imaging ensures safe catheter navigation through blood vessels during the procedure.

Cardiologists insert a compressed tissue valve through a small incision in the groin. A catheter guides the replacement valve through blood vessels into the native valve. Once positioned, the artificial valve expands to push open old valve leaflets. The new valve takes over normal blood regulation immediately after deployment. Patients remain monitored in intensive care shortly after the catheter is removed.

Total medical expenses depend on valve implant types, hospital stay duration, and pre-procedure diagnostics. Advanced structural heart valve implants vary in cost based on design features. Intensive care monitoring and specialised imaging scans also contribute to overall hospital bills. International patient services help provide itemised financial estimates prior to travel. Receiving direct hospital quotes ensures clear financial planning for international families.

Patients typically spend several days in hospital following transcatheter valve replacement. Initial monitoring takes place in an intensive care unit for immediate post-procedure observation. Patients then move to a standard cardiac ward once vital signs remain stable. Medical teams evaluate mobility and wound healing before approving hospital discharge. Early walking exercises begin shortly after transfer to regular inpatient rooms.

International patients usually remain near the hospital for two weeks following discharge. Cardiologists perform follow-up echocardiogram checks to confirm proper valve function before travel clearance. Fit-to-fly assessment ensures puncture sites in the groin have healed completely. Travel assistance teams help arrange airport assistance for a smooth trip home. Receiving formal medical clearance prevents complications during international flights.

Cardiac rehabilitation includes light walking, medication management, and gradual activity expansion after treatment. Specialised heart rehabilitation guides patients through structured exercise programs safely. Medical professionals monitor blood pressure and heart rate during early recovery sessions. Gradual rehabilitation restores physical strength while protecting the newly implanted heart valve. Patients learn safe daily exercise limits from trained physical therapy teams.