The impact of TAVI on vascular complications incidence: a literature review

Abstract

Aim: This article provides a literature review on the post-procedural outcomes of patients who have undergone transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Background: TAVI is a less invasive treatment option than surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) for aortic stenosis. Aortic stenosis in the UK has a prevalence rate of 5% in people aged 75 and over. Access sites used for TAVI procedures include trans-aortic, subclavian, carotid, apical (TA) and femoral (TF) ( National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), 2012 ). Transfemoral TAVI access sites were previously closed using an open surgical access technique (closure of the skin using sutures). However, over the years, the use of percutaneous access closure devices such as Perclose Proglide has increased. Nevertheless, there is a gap in the literature that assesses the postoperative vascular complications in patients who undergo TAVI. Conclusion: This review highlights the importance of measuring patients' post-procedural outcomes, as well as the need for increased confidence and competence in all health professionals in their provision of care to patients, and more evidence-based care. Relevance to clinical practice: Nurses can improve patient care by observing the patient and ensuring their safety following the TAVI procedure. They should therefore be competent in recognising any major or minor vascular complications after transfemoral TAVI and assessing their significance.