Abbott, a global leader in healthcare innovation, has performed the first patient procedures using its investigational transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) balloon-expandable system, marking a significant step forward in treating severe symptomatic aortic stenosis. This device represents the initial phase in Abbott’s efforts to develop a software-guided, AI-enabled TAVI system. Once approved, the system will expand the company’s structural heart portfolio, complementing the commercially available Navitor™ TAVI system and providing physicians with additional treatment options.
Aortic Stenosis and the Need for TAVI Solutions
Aortic stenosis, a condition where the heart’s aortic valve narrows due to calcium buildup, affects up to 9% of adults over 80 years old. This narrowing forces the heart to work harder, potentially leading to chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, and even life-threatening complications. For patients who are not candidates for open-heart surgery due to age, frailty, or other health conditions, minimally invasive TAVI procedures offer an effective alternative.
The investigational balloon-expandable TAVI device works by crimping a replacement heart valve onto a deflated balloon, which is inserted into the body through an artery in the groin. The device is guided to the heart, where the balloon inflates to deploy the new valve, restoring proper blood flow. Once expanded, the balloon is deflated and removed, leaving the new valve in place.
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A Collaborative Approach to Innovation
The first procedures with this investigational system were successfully conducted at the Republican Centre of Emergency Medicine in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Interventional cardiologist Dr. Saidamir Djafarov led the efforts, supported by Dr. Azeem Latib, section head and director of interventional cardiology at Montefiore Health System, and Dr. Vinayak Bapat, chair of cardiothoracic surgery at the Minneapolis Heart Institute.
“Transcatheter aortic valve implantation has revolutionized the treatment of aortic stenosis, but no single device can address the needs of every patient,” said Dr. Latib. “Expanding the range of TAVI solutions allows us to tailor treatments to each patient’s unique anatomy and condition.”
Building Toward AI-Guided TAVI
Abbott’s new TAVI platform aims to incorporate AI-guided procedural capabilities in future iterations, focusing on improving precision and ease of use for physicians. The system is designed to offer enhanced hemodynamic performance, ensuring optimal blood flow through the replacement valve. These advancements reflect Abbott’s commitment to leveraging physician insights and the latest technologies to address evolving patient and provider needs.
“Abbott’s expertise in the TAVI market positions us to close gaps in patient care,” said Sandra Lesenfants, senior vice president of Abbott’s structural heart business. “Through close collaboration with physicians, we are developing innovative therapies that have the potential to transform treatment for aortic stenosis.”
About Abbott
Abbott is a global healthcare leader focused on advancing life-changing technologies in diagnostics, medical devices, nutrition, and branded generic medicines. With a presence in over 160 countries, Abbott’s 114,000 employees are dedicated to helping people live fuller, healthier lives.
This milestone represents not only a technological advance but also a commitment to improving outcomes for patients with aortic stenosis worldwide. Abbott’s continued focus on research and collaboration underscores its mission to provide innovative solutions for complex healthcare challenges.
