TAVI and TAVR: Terminology Clarification
TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation) and TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement) are identical procedures with different names—there is no clinical difference between them. 1, 2
Why Two Names Exist
TAVI is the preferred terminology in European guidelines and literature, standing for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation 1
TAVR is the preferred terminology in American guidelines and literature, standing for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement 3, 2, 4
Both terms describe the exact same procedure: percutaneous delivery of a bioprosthetic valve to treat severe aortic stenosis without open-heart surgery 2, 5
Geographic Naming Patterns
European Society of Cardiology consistently uses "TAVI" in their valvular heart disease guidelines 1
American College of Cardiology and other U.S. societies use "TAVR" in their consensus documents and clinical trials 3, 4, 6
The terminology difference reflects regional linguistic preferences rather than any procedural variation 2
Clinical Implications
When reading literature or guidelines, recognize that TAVI and TAVR refer to the same intervention with identical indications, contraindications, and outcomes 1, 3
The procedure involves the same valve platforms (Edwards SAPIEN, Medtronic CoreValve, etc.), access routes (transfemoral, transapical, subclavian), and technical considerations regardless of which term is used 1, 6
Both terms describe treatment for symptomatic severe aortic stenosis in patients across all surgical risk categories when anatomically suitable 3, 4