Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) involves inserting a catheter into a blood vessel in your upper leg or chest and passing it towards your aortic valve. The catheter is then used to guide and fix a replacement valve over the top of the old one.

How long does the TAVI procedure take?

The procedure usually takes one to two hours. Your heart team will close the puncture site with a device that seals the blood vessel. Will I feel any pain? You may feel uncomfortable at the procedure site after the TAVI procedure, but this will wear off in a few days.

How painful is TAVR?

It is common to have pain at the catheter insertion site (often in the leg) for several days following a TAVR. Pain tends to gradually resolve as you recover and heal. Controlling pain is important because it helps you complete rehabilitation and increase your activities.