CHI Performs First Successful Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) Procedure in GUYANA

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA APRIL 19, 2024: The Caribbean Heart Institute (CHI)  today performed the first successful Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI), also known as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), in Guyana. 

TAVI offers a minimally invasive approach to repairing the aortic valve. During the procedure, an artificial valve is implanted into the heart. Without the removal of the old, damaged valve; the new valve is inserted on the interior of the diseased valve. 

Two patients underwent this procedure: a 67-year-old diagnosed with Severe Aortic Stenosis, and a 65-year-old diagnosed with Severe Aortic Stenosis and Coronary Artery Disease. Aortic Stenosis, characterised by the narrowing of the aortic valve, restricts normal blood flow, while Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) intensifies this condition by causing plaque buildup in the arteries supplying blood to the heart.