A Comprehensive Guide on “Patient Advice for Life After TAVI Treatment in Kolkata in 2026” by Dr. Kuntal Bhattacharya, Sr. Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, Kolkata

Undergoing a Heart Valve Replacement in Kolkata used to mean major open-heart surgery with a long, painful recovery. Today, thanks to advanced TAVI Treatment in Kolkata (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation), we can replace a narrowed heart valve through a tiny incision in the leg.

While the procedure itself is a medical marvel, the real success story begins once you return home. As an Interventional Cardiologist in Kolkata, I often tell my patients: “I have fixed the valve; now it’s your turn to nurture your heart.”

Here is my expert guide on what to expect and how to live your best life after TAVI/TAVR.

Guide for TAVI Treatment in Kolkata

1. The First Few Days: Listening to Your Body

Recovery from TAVI is remarkably fast. Most of my patients are up and walking within 24 hours. However, “fast” doesn’t mean “instant.”

• The Insertion Site: You will have a small puncture wound in your groin. It is normal to see slight bruising or feel a small lump. Keep it clean and dry. Avoid soaking in a bath or swimming for at least a week.

• Energy Levels: It is common to feel a bit tired for the first 3–5 days. Your body is adjusting to a sudden improvement in blood flow. Rest when you need to, but don’t stay in bed all day.

2. Physical Activity: Slow and Steady

You don’t need to be a marathon runner, but you shouldn’t be a couch potato either.

• Walking is Medicine: I recommend short, frequent walks around your home or a flat garden. Start with 5 minutes and gradually increase the time.

• The “Weight” Rule: For the first week, do not lift anything heavier than a 2-liter bottle of water (about 2 kg). Avoid strenuous pushing or pulling, like moving furniture or heavy gardening.

• Driving: Most patients can resume driving within 1 to 2 weeks, but always wait for a green signal from your Heart Valve Doctor in Kolkata during your first follow-up.

3. Diet and Medications

Your new valve needs a healthy environment to function for years to come.

• Salt is the Enemy: In Kolkata, we love our spicy and salty snacks. However, after TAVI, you must limit salt to keep your blood pressure stable and prevent fluid buildup.

• Blood Thinners: You will likely be prescribed blood-thinning medications (like Aspirin or Clopidogrel). These prevent small clots from forming on the new valve. Never skip a dose.

• Dental Care: Interestingly, your teeth and heart are connected. Always tell your dentist you have an artificial valve before any procedure, as you may need antibiotics to prevent valve infections (Endocarditis).

4. When to Call Your Doctor

While TAVI is very safe, keep an eye out for these “Red Flags”:

• Sudden shortness of breath.

• Fainting or severe dizziness.

• Redness, swelling, or drainage from the leg incision.

• Rapid weight gain (more than 1–2 kg in two days), which may indicate fluid retention.

Seeking the Right Care: TAVI Treatment in Kolkata

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms like chest pain or extreme fatigue due to heart valve problems, you need an experienced TAVI Doctor in Kolkata.

Where to go?

Kolkata is now a hub for cardiac excellence. Major hospitals equipped with advanced “Hybrid Cath Labs” for TAVI include:

• NH Rabindranath Tagore International Institute of Cardiac Sciences (RTIICS)

• Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals

• Manipal Hospitals (formerly AMRI)

• BM Birla Heart Research Centre

Choosing Your Specialist

When looking for an Interventional Cardiologist in Kolkata for valve issues, ensure they have specific expertise in “Structural Heart Interventions.” This is a specialized field beyond regular stenting.

FAQ’s on TAVI Treatment in Kolkata