12 August, 2025

A New Era in Heart Valve Replacement: India Welcomes the Motorised TAVR Delivery System

Introduction – A Game-Changer for Heart Valve Replacement in India

Heart valve disease, particularly severe aortic stenosis, has long posed a significant health challenge in India. Traditionally, open-heart surgery was the gold standard for valve replacement, but not all patients—especially those with bicuspid aortic valves, high surgical risks, or multiple comorbidities—could undergo such an invasive procedure.

Enter Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR/TAVI) — a minimally invasive technique that has transformed treatment for high-risk and elderly patients worldwide. But India’s heart care scene just witnessed a groundbreaking leap forward — the launch of the country’s first and only Motorised TAVR delivery system, the Vitaflow Liberty from MicroPort.

And here’s the exciting part — our heart team proudly performed the first two cases in Tamil Nadu (Coimbatore & Chennai) with outstanding outcomes. Both patients had bicuspid aortic valves — a historically challenging anatomy — and the new device rose to the occasion beautifully.

Why This Motorised TAVR Device is Revolutionary

The Vitaflow Liberty isn’t just another valve. It is designed for precision, ease, and adaptability, making it a true next-generation advancement in structural heart intervention.

Key Features That Set It Apart

Highest Radial Strength Among Current Self-Expanding Valves
- Perfect for bicuspid aortic stenosis patients, where extra radial force ensures optimal expansion and sealing.
Motorised TAVR Delivery
- Allows single-operator deployment — smoother, faster, and with unmatched control.
- Facilitates easy retrieval and repositioning if placement isn’t ideal (as demonstrated in our Case 2).
19 French OD System – Sheathless Insertion
- Smaller access size = reduced vascular complications.
- Built-in in-line sheath makes the procedure less traumatic.
Proven 9-Year Outcome Data
- Globally tested, with solid long-term durability evidence.
Bovine Pericardium Leaflets
- Ensures excellent biocompatibility and longevity

The First Two Cases in India – Real Stories, Real Breakthroughs

Case 1: Coimbatore – Seamless First Deployment

The patient had a calcified bicuspid aortic valve, advanced heart failure symptoms, and was unsuitable for open surgery.
The motorised system’s precision allowed perfect positioning on the first attempt, restoring normal aortic valve function immediately.

Case 2: Chennai – A Test of the Motorised System’s True Potential

This patient’s bicuspid anatomy posed an added challenge — initial positioning wasn’t ideal.
Thanks to the motorised retrieval and redeployment capability, we were able to recapture the valve mid-procedure and re-deploy it for a perfect seal.

This ability to correct positioning in real time is a game-changer — especially for complex anatomies where millimetre-level accuracy matters.

Why This Matters for India

1. Expanding Access to Minimally Invasive Heart Care

Until now, bicuspid valve TAVR cases were often high-risk, with many requiring open surgery. This new device means more patients can avoid sternotomy and long ICU stays.

2. Reducing Procedure Time & Complications

Motorised control means less manual force, fewer procedural delays, and lower risk of paravalvular leak or malposition.

3. Strengthening India’s Position in Global Heart Care

Performing pioneering cases in Tamil Nadu puts India on the map as an early adopter of cutting-edge cardiac technology.

How the Motorised TAVR Procedure Works – Step by Step

Pre-Procedural Planning
- CT scans and echocardiography to assess valve anatomy, calcification, and aortic root dimensions.
Access Site Preparation
- Typically via transfemoral approach.
Valve Loading
- Vitaflow Liberty is mounted on its motorised delivery catheter.
Navigation to Aortic Valve
- Guided via fluoroscopy and TEE (transesophageal echo).
Motorised Deployment
- Single-operator controlled release with micro-precision adjustments.
Final Check
- Intra-procedure echo confirms proper function & seal.
Closure & Recovery

Expert Insight – Why This Device Could Redefine Bicuspid TAVR in India

“Bicuspid aortic valves present unique challenges in TAVR due to their asymmetric shape and calcification patterns. The Vitaflow Liberty’s higher radial force and ability to reposition seamlessly have the potential to dramatically improve procedural success rates.”

Dr A.B. Gopalamurugan
Senior Interventional Cardiologist & Electrophysiologist

FAQs on Motorised TAVR in India

1. What makes motorised TAVR better than manual delivery systems?

The motorised system allows controlled, precise deployment and easier retrieval — reducing errors, improving placement, and enhancing patient safety.

2. Can TAVR be done for bicuspid valves?

Yes. While historically challenging, the Vitaflow Liberty is specifically designed to handle bicuspid anatomies with higher radial strength.

3. How long does the procedure take?

Most motorised TAVR procedures are completed within 60–90 minutes, depending on complexity.

4. What is the recovery time?

Patients often recover faster than with open-heart surgery — many are discharged within 3–5 days.

5. How much does TAVR cost in India?

Costs vary by hospital and city, but typically range from ₹18–₹30 lakhs, depending on device type, hospital facilities, and patient condition.

6. Is TAVR covered by insurance in India?

Many private insurers now offer coverage for TAVR; patients should confirm with their provider.

7. How long will the valve last?

Current data shows excellent durability beyond 8–10 years, with ongoing studies confirming longevity.

8. Which hospitals in India offer motorised TAVR?

As of now, select high-volume cardiac centres — including ours — have access to the Vitaflow Liberty system.

The Future of Heart Valve Replacement in India

The arrival of motorised TAVR in India is more than just a technological milestone — it’s a lifeline for thousands of patients who previously had limited options.
Our first two successful cases mark the start of a new era in precision, safety, and accessibility for heart valve therapy.

If you or your loved one has been diagnosed with aortic stenosis, particularly bicuspid valve disease, now is the time to explore this breakthrough.

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