Journal of Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences (Nov 2023)
Necessity of Implementing the Transcatheter Aortic Valve Placement Method Provision of 3D Esophageal Echocardiography in Mazandaran Heart Center: A Policy Brief
Abstract
Due to the increase in the average age and metabolic diseases in the Iranian population, an increase in the prevalence of atherosclerotic aortic valve stenosis is expected. In severe and symptomatic cases of this disease, if the valve is not replaced, the death rate increases by 50% with every two years of age. Non-invasive intervention of aortic valve implantation through catheter (TAVI) is suitable for patients in whom open heart surgery is impossible or associated with high risk. Despite the widespread use of the TAVI method around the world and in some medical centers of the country, until now this method has not been started and performed in the Mazandaran Heart Center, a specialized and sub-specialized referral center for cardiovascular patients in Mazandaran province and other parts of the north of the country; Also, provision of a 3D esophageal echocardiography device is necessary as a basic prerequisite. In this policy brief, evidence-based solutions in this field and the challenges ahead have been proposed and presented to policymakers and managers in the field of cardiovascular health by the researchers of the Cardiovascular Research Center of Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences. Therefore, the officials pay sufficient attention to the necessity of equipping the Mazandaran heart center with a 3D transesophageal echocardiography device and funding it, providing physical facilities including a dedicated operating room and training facilities to form a specialized team skilled in TAVI procedure and insurance coverage for this Service is emphasized.
