Heart disease continues to be a leading cause of death in India and around the world. With the rise of advanced medical technologies, treatments for heart conditions have become more effective and less invasive, offering patients quicker recoveries and better quality of life. Among these innovations, heart valve replacement procedures like TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation) and TMVR (Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement) stand out as life-changing options for patients. A key figure behind the introduction and advancement of these procedures in India is Dr. A.B. Gopalamurugan, a pioneering cardiologist who has made significant contributions to heart care.

What is TAVI/TAVR?
TAVI, also known as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), is a minimally invasive procedure used to replace a diseased aortic valve without the need for open-heart surgery. This procedure is particularly beneficial for elderly patients who have aortic stenosis—a condition where the aortic valve becomes narrowed, restricting blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body.

Dr. A.B. Gopalamurugan performed India’s first TAVI procedure using the Evolut valve in  2015, marking a milestone in Indian cardiology. His successful procedure paved the way for the official commercialization of TAVI treatments in India in 2016. The first patient he treated with TAVI remains healthy today, demonstrating the long-term effectiveness of this life-saving technology.

What is TMVR?
Similar to TAVI, Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement (TMVR) is a procedure that replaces the mitral valve without the need for open-heart surgery. The mitral valve, which is located between the heart’s left atrium and left ventricle, plays a crucial role in ensuring that blood flows in the correct direction through the heart.

Dr. Gopalamurugan is also a pioneer in TMVR. In 2011, he demonstrated that the mitral valve could be replaced without open-heart surgery, a breakthrough that was published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (ACC). He performed the country’s first TMVR in 2017, further establishing his role in advancing heart care in India. The patient who underwent this first TMVR continues to live a healthy life, showing the success of this innovative procedure.

Benefits of TAVI/TAVR/TMVR:

• Alternative to open heart surgery
• Faster Recovery
• Improved Quality of Life

Key Points for Recovery:

• Follow-up Appointments: Regular check-ups are essential to monitor the function of the new valve and overall heart health.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a heart-healthy diet, engaging in moderate exercise, and avoiding smoking are crucial for long-term success.
• Medication: Depending on your condition, you may need to take blood thinners or other medications to support your recovery.

Additionally, Dr. Gopalamurugan performed India’s first laser angioplasty in 2021, a technique that opens blocked blood vessels without the need for bypass surgery. This procedure has helped hundreds of patients avoid open-heart surgery, allowing them to recover quickly and return to their daily lives.

Conclusion
For patients facing heart valve disease, TAVI, TMVR, and other minimally invasive procedures offer a less invasive option with the potential for quicker recovery and improved quality of life. 

At MGM Healthcare Malar, Adyar we have renowned team of cardiologists and infrastructure to provide heart-heart care.

Call us at 044 4289 2222 for a personalized consultation