Transcatheter valvular interventions in 2017: some things old, some things new!

Abstract

Transcatheter valvular interventions have changed the landscape of valvular therapies. We examine some studies on transcatheter valvular interventions published in the year 2017 to better understand their implications on clinical practice and future research. Findings from the SURTAVI study suggest TAVR to be a reasonable option in intermediate risk patients with aortic stenosis. Recent studies indicate that valve leaflet thrombosis is associated with poor outcomes. Data from the TVT registry on current transcatheter mitral valve repair are encouraging; alternative repair systems have been subjected to feasibility trials. TAVR for patients with bicuspid aortic valve stenosis appears to be improving. Cerebral embolic protection devices have shown promise but the population in whom they are most likely to provide benefit needs to be better defined. The year 2017 has seen significant advances in the field of transcatheter valvular interventions. Strong foundations have been laid for future studies that are likely to significantly impact clinical practice.