Legendary Bollywood actor Prem Chopra, 90, has undergone a Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) after being diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis, a critical heart valve condition that restricts blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. The update on his health was shared by his son-in-law and actor Sharman Joshi through an Instagram post.

What Is Aortic Stenosis?

Aortic stenosis is a serious heart condition where the aortic valve narrows and fails to open fully, limiting blood flow to the aorta—the major artery supplying blood to the body. Dr Abhijit Borse, Senior Interventional Cardiologist at the Asian Heart Institute, explains that the heart has to work harder against this obstruction. “When blood flow decreases, the heart muscle weakens, which becomes a serious issue,” he says. If untreated, the condition can lead to heart failure and other life-threatening problems.

Why Does Aortic Stenosis Occur?

In elderly individuals, the most common cause is age-related calcification. Over time, calcium deposits make the valve stiff and narrow. “It’s like trying to push open a stuck door—you need more effort and may damage something if you push too hard,” Dr Borse adds.

Severity and Risks

Symptoms such as breathlessness, chest pain, and fainting indicate advancing disease. Research published in the New England Journal of Medicine warns that once symptoms appear, the risk of death increases sharply if valve replacement is not performed. Early detection is therefore crucial.

Can It Go Unnoticed?

Yes. Many patients experience no symptoms in the early stages. The American Heart Association (AHA) notes that moderate aortic stenosis often remains silent while the heart compensates by thickening its muscular walls. This makes early diagnosis challenging.

How Is It Diagnosed?

The AHA identifies transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) as the primary diagnostic tool. It measures valve area, blood flow velocity, and pressure gradients. Additional tests such as ECGs and chest X-rays help assess overall heart health and guide treatment planning.

TAVI: A Minimally Invasive Lifesaver

For elderly patients like Prem Chopra, TAVI offers a safer alternative to open-heart surgery. Dr Maulik Parekh, Structural Cardiologist at Sir H N Reliance Foundation Hospital, explains that the procedure is performed through a small blood vessel in the leg, reducing risks and ensuring faster recovery. Patients typically experience shorter hospital stays, less pain, and quicker return to normal life.

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