TAVI (transcatheter aortic valve implantation) replaces a severely narrowed aortic valve through a catheter — without open-chest surgery. It is offered for suitable patients in Istanbul, Turkey.
In short: For severe aortic stenosis, TAVI delivers a new valve via a catheter — no sternotomy and a shorter recovery. It is chosen for higher-risk, elderly or selected patients by a heart team after assessment.
What is TAVI?
TAVI is a minimally invasive procedure in which a new valve, mounted on a catheter, is guided to the heart (usually through a leg artery) and expanded inside the diseased aortic valve — restoring normal blood flow without opening the chest.
Who needs it? (Aortic stenosis)
TAVI treats severe aortic stenosis — a narrowed aortic valve that obstructs blood flow and can cause breathlessness, chest pain and fainting. It is especially valuable for patients at higher surgical risk.
TAVI vs open surgery (SAVR)
The image above compares the two: TAVI is catheter-based with a shorter recovery and suits higher-risk or elderly patients, while surgical replacement (SAVR) is durable and proven and suits lower-risk surgical candidates. A heart team decides the best option.
How the procedure works
- Access through a leg artery (or another route) under imaging guidance.
- The new valve is positioned inside the old aortic valve.
- The valve is expanded and starts working immediately.
- No open chest and no heart-lung machine in most cases.
Recovery
Hospital stay and recovery are generally shorter than with open surgery. Patients are monitored and started on the appropriate medication, with follow-up to check valve function.
Why Choose Turkey (Istanbul)?
- Over 30 years of experience in cardiovascular and vascular surgery with Prof. Dr. Yusuf Kalko.
- Modern minimally invasive and hybrid techniques.
- English- and Arabic-speaking support for international patients.
- Easy access to Istanbul from the Gulf, Europe and beyond.
- Remote assessment before travel, then treatment and appointment planning.
How to Start From Abroad (Remote Consultation)
You can send your medical reports and scan images via WhatsApp for an initial assessment before traveling. We then plan your treatment and appointment in Istanbul, Turkey, and support international patients at every step.
To evaluate your aortic valve and treatment options in Istanbul (Beylikdüzü) and plan suitable treatment, contact us on WhatsApp.
Related Pages
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TAVI major surgery?
TAVI is minimally invasive and avoids opening the chest in most cases, which is why recovery is usually faster than open valve surgery.
Who is suitable for TAVI?
Patients with severe aortic stenosis, particularly those at higher surgical risk; a heart team confirms suitability after assessment.
How long is the recovery?
Recovery is generally shorter than open surgery, with monitoring and follow-up to confirm the valve is working well.
Do you treat international patients?
Yes. We welcome international and Gulf patients in Turkey (Istanbul), with English- and Arabic-speaking support throughout assessment and treatment.
How can I book an appointment from abroad?
Via WhatsApp: send your inquiry and medical reports, and we will arrange your appointment and explain the steps before and after arriving in Istanbul.
Can I have a consultation before traveling?
Yes. An initial remote assessment can be made based on your reports and scans before you come to Turkey.
How much does treatment cost?
Cost depends on your condition and the treatment plan. For an estimate, contact us via WhatsApp with your medical reports attached.