One of the main advantages of TAVI over open-heart surgery is a faster, less disruptive recovery. Every patient is different, but the general timeline below gives a realistic guide.
Day of the procedure
Most patients are up and mobilising within hours of the procedure, once sedation has worn off and initial observations are stable.
In hospital: 1–3 days
Typical hospital stay is one to three days, compared with a week or more after open-heart surgery. Your team will monitor heart rhythm, the puncture site, and kidney function before discharge.
First week at home
- Some soreness or bruising at the catheter access site is normal.
- Light activity (walking, daily tasks) is generally encouraged early.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise until reviewed by your team.
Weeks 2–6
Most patients return to normal daily activities within days to a few weeks — far sooner than the 6–12 week recovery typical after SAVR. A follow-up appointment and echocardiogram are usually scheduled in this window to confirm the valve is functioning well.
Longer term
Ongoing follow-up continues periodically to monitor valve function. Many patients report a substantial improvement in breathlessness, energy, and exercise tolerance within weeks of the procedure.
When to seek help
Contact your care team promptly if you notice fever, spreading redness or swelling at the access site, new or worsening breathlessness, chest pain, or fainting.
This page provides general information about TAVI and is not a substitute for individual medical assessment. Suitability for TAVI is determined through consultation and Heart Team review.