Setting up a transcatheter aortic valve implantation program: Indian perspective.

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Interventional Cardiology
• Geriatric Medicine

Background:

• Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has transformed aortic stenosis management in Western countries.
• Aortic stenosis prevalence rises sharply with age, posing challenges for India's aging population.
• TAVI adoption remains limited in developing nations despite its decade-long availability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the fundamental steps for establishing a TAVI program.
• To share insights from a high-volume TAVI center in Germany.
• To address the growing need for TAVI in India's geriatric population.

Main Methods:

• Review of TAVI program initiation protocols.
• Analysis of a successful high-volume TAVI center's experience.
• Focus on practical aspects relevant to developing countries.

Main Results:

• Successful TAVI program implementation requires careful planning and resource allocation.
• Learning from established centers can accelerate TAVI adoption.
• Addressing co-morbidities and surgical risk is key in patient selection.

Conclusions:

• Initiating a TAVI program is feasible with strategic planning and international collaboration.
• Adapting global TAVI best practices to local contexts is essential for success.
• TAVI holds significant potential to improve geriatric healthcare in India.