TAVI Hub
Severe aortic stenosis is a progressive heart condition that can cause breathlessness, chest pain, and fainting if left untreated. At CardioOne Heart Centre in Chermside, our TAVI Hub provides clear information about Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) - a minimally invasive heart valve replacement now widely used as an alternative to open-heart surgery. This page explains the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for severe aortic stenosis, and what patients can expect from TAVI in Brisbane, including recovery and long-term care.
What is TAVI?
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) is a minimally invasive treatment for severe aortic stenosis — a condition where the aortic valve becomes narrowed, restricting blood flow from the heart.
Instead of open-heart surgery, TAVI uses a catheter (usually through the groin artery) to deliver and implant a new valve inside the diseased one. This approach reduces recovery time, discomfort, and overall surgical risk, particularly for older patients or those with other health concerns.
Causes and Risk Factors of Aortic Stenosis
Aortic stenosis typically develops due to:
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Age-related valve calcification – the most common cause in older adults
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Congenital heart valve abnormalities – such as a bicuspid aortic valve
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Rheumatic fever – which may damage the heart valves
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Chronic kidney disease – linked with faster valve calcification
Risk factors include increasing age, high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol, and a family history of heart disease.
Signs and Symptoms
Severe aortic stenosis can progress without obvious signs, and symptoms may only appear once the condition is advanced. Common symptoms include:
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Shortness of breath, especially on exertion
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Chest pain or tightness
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Feeling faint, dizzy, or episodes of syncope
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Fatigue and reduced ability to exercise
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Swelling of ankles or feet
Without treatment, severe aortic stenosis can lead to heart failure and serious complications.
Diagnosing Aortic Stenosis
To determine if TAVI is appropriate, patients undergo a thorough evaluation at CardioOne Heart Centre, which may include:
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Echocardiography to measure valve narrowing
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CT scans of the chest and blood vessels
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ECG to check heart rhythm and function
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Cardiac catheterisation, if required
These tests help our multidisciplinary Heart Team decide whether TAVI is the most suitable treatment.
Treating Aortic Stenosis
For severe aortic stenosis, the two main treatment approaches are:
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TAVI – a catheter-based, minimally invasive option
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Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement (SAVR) – open-heart surgery, often preferred in younger or lower-risk patients
The right choice depends on age, general health, valve anatomy, and overall surgical risk.
At CardioOne, each patient is assessed individually so the safest and most effective treatment can be recommended.
Living with a New Valve
Recovery after TAVI is generally faster than after open-heart surgery. Most patients:
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Spend a few days in hospital
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Resume normal activities within weeks
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Require regular follow-up appointments
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Undergo echocardiograms to monitor valve performance
Long-term care may include lifestyle guidance, heart-healthy diet, and medication such as blood thinners if recommended.
Why CardioOne Specialises in TAVI
At CardioOne Heart Centre, we provide specialist expertise with experienced cardiologists and surgeons in structural heart procedures. Every patient is assessed by our multidisciplinary Heart Team to ensure the most suitable treatment plan. With treatment and follow-up available locally in Chermside, patients benefit from both convenience and continuity of care - from diagnosis through to long-term monitoring and support.