FAQ

TAVI/TAVR is typically recommended for patients with severe aortic stenosis who are at intermediate or high risk for complications from open-heart surgery. This includes elderly patients or those with other health conditions that make traditional surgery risky.

The procedure involves inserting a catheter through the femoral artery (in the groin) or a small incision in the chest. The new valve is then guided through the catheter and positioned inside the existing aortic valve. Once in place, the new valve expands, pushing the old valve leaflets out of the way and taking over the valve’s function.

The benefits of TAVI/TAVR include a shorter recovery time, less pain, and lower risk of complications such as infection and blood loss. It is a less invasive option, which is particularly beneficial for patients who are not good candidates for open-heart surgery.

As with any medical procedure, there are risks involved, including bleeding, stroke, vascular complications, heart attack, kidney injury, and the need for a permanent pacemaker. However, advancements in technique and technology have significantly reduced these risks.

The TAVI/TAVR procedure typically takes about 1-2 hours, but this can vary depending on the individual patient’s anatomy and any complexities encountered during the procedure.

Recovery from TAVI/TAVR is generally quicker than from open-heart surgery. Most patients can expect to spend a few days in the hospital and can usually return to normal activities within a few weeks. Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor the patient’s progress.

The longevity of the valve varies, but current data suggests that TAVI/TAVR valves can last at least 10-15 years. Long-term studies are ongoing to determine the exact lifespan of these valves.

The decision to undergo TAVI/TAVR should be made in consultation with a cardiologist and a heart team. They will evaluate your medical history, current health condition, and the severity of your aortic stenosis to determine if TAVI/TAVR is the best option for you.

Rotablation is recommended when plaque buildup in the coronary arteries is too hard or calcified to be treated effectively with traditional balloon angioplasty or stenting. It is often used for patients with complex or heavily calcified lesions.

During Rotablation, a catheter with a diamond-tipped burr is inserted into the coronary artery. The burr spins at high speeds (up to 200,000 RPM), grinding away the calcified plaque into tiny particles that are then washed away in the bloodstream.

The primary benefits of Rotablation include improved blood flow through the coronary arteries, relief from symptoms of angina (chest pain), and enhanced outcomes for subsequent stenting procedures.

As with any medical procedure, Rotablation carries risks. Potential complications include artery perforation, dissection, slow blood flow, and transient heart block. However, these risks are generally low and the procedure is considered safe and effective.

Preparation for Rotablation includes routine pre-operative assessments such as blood tests, an electrocardiogram (EKG), and a physical examination. Patients should inform their doctor about all medications they are taking and may need to stop certain medications before the procedure.

Recovery from Rotablation is similar to other angioplasty procedures. Patients may need to stay in the hospital for a day or two for observation. Post-procedure care includes taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and gradually resuming normal activities.

Rotablation is highly effective for patients with heavily calcified coronary arteries. It significantly improves blood flow and is often followed by stenting to ensure long-term artery patency. Success rates are high, especially when combined with other interventional techniques.

Yes, Rotablation can be repeated if necessary. If a patient experiences recurrent symptoms or if new calcified blockages develop, the procedu

Alternatives to Rotablation include traditional balloon angioplasty, drug-eluting stents, and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The choice of treatment depends on the patient’s specific condition, the severity of the calcification, and the overall health of the patient. Your cardiologist will discuss the best options for your individual case.

A pacemaker monitors the heart’s electrical activity and, when it detects an abnormal rhythm, it sends electrical impulses to prompt the heart to beat at a regular pace. It consists of a pulse generator (containing the battery and electronics) and leads (wires) that deliver the impulses to the heart.

There are several types of pacemakers, including single-chamber, dual-chamber, and biventricular pacemakers. Single-chamber pacemakers connect to one chamber of the heart, dual-chamber pacemakers connect to two chambers, and biventricular pacemakers (also known as cardiac resynchronization therapy devices) connect to both lower chambers to treat heart failure.

Pacemaker implantation is a minor surgical procedure typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation. An incision is made near the collarbone, and the leads are guided through a vein into the heart. The pulse generator is then placed under the skin and connected to the leads. The procedure usually takes a few hours.

While pacemaker implantation is generally safe, potential risks include infection at the implantation site, bleeding, bruising, lead displacement, and, rarely, damage to blood vessels or the heart. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you before the procedure.

After implantation, avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several weeks. Keep the incision site clean and dry, and follow your doctor’s instructions for wound care. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor the pacemaker’s function and battery life.

Most everyday electronic devices, like microwaves and smartphones, are safe to use with a pacemaker. However, avoid prolonged exposure to strong electromagnetic fields, such as those from MRI machines or certain industrial equipment. Always inform medical personnel that you have a pacemaker.

Most people do not feel the pacemaker working. Occasionally, you might feel a slight fluttering in your chest when the pacemaker activates, but this is generally not uncomfortable. If you experience any unusual sensations or symptoms, contact your doctor.

Pacemaker batteries typically last between 5 to 15 years, depending on the type of device and how often it needs to activate. When the battery runs low, it will need to be replaced through a minor surgical procedure. Your doctor will monitor the battery life during regular check-ups.

Yes, most people with pacemakers can return to their normal activities, including exercise, work, and travel, once they have fully recovered from the implantation procedure. It’s important to follow your doctor’s advice regarding specific activities and avoid contact sports that could damage the device.