Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Procedure Research Articles

Neurocognitive function in procedures correcting severe aortic valve stenosis: patterns and determinants.

Neurocognitive changes occurring after a surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) or transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) procedure for the correction of severe aortic stenosis (AS) have not been widely addressed and, if addressed, have produced conflicting results. The purpose of this study is to identify the pre-procedural neurocognitive pattern and its determinants in a setting of elderly (>65 years) patients with severe AS undergoing SAVR or TAVI and the changes occurring at a 2-3 month follow-up. This was a prospective cohort study included in the Italian Registry on Outcomes in Aortic Stenosis Treatment in Elderly Patients. Patients were assessed both before and after (2-3 months) the procedure using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test. Data on periprocedural demographics, clinical factors, and outcome measures were collected. Before the procedure, 70% of the patients demonstrated a MoCA score <23 points, which was indicative of cognitive dysfunction. The factors associated with neurocognitive dysfunction were age, functional capacity, chronic heart failure, and hemoglobin levels. After the procedure, there was an overall improvement in the MoCA score of the patients, but 28% of the patients showed a reliable worsening of their condition. The factors associated with MoCA worsening were platelet transfusions and the amount of red blood cell units transfused. The correction of severe AS leads to an improvement in neurocognitive function after 2-3 months. This improvement does not differentiate between SAVR and TAVI after matching for pre-procedural factors. The only modifiable factor associated with pre-procedural neurocognitive function is anemia, and anemia correction with red blood cell transfusions is associated with a worsening of neurocognitive function. This leads to the hypothesis that anemia correction before the procedure (with iron and/or erythropoietin) may limit the risk of a post-procedural worsening of neurocognitive function.

Long-term prognostic value of the H2FPEF score in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation.

A considerable proportion of candidates for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) have underlying heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), which can be challenging for diagnosis because significant valvular heart disease should be excluded before diagnosing HFpEF. This study investigated the long-term prognostic value of the pre-procedural H2FPEF score in patients with preserved ejection fraction (EF) undergoing TAVI. Patients who underwent TAVI between October 2013 and May 2017 were enrolled from the Optimized CathEter vAlvular iNtervention-Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Japanese multicentre registry. After excluding 914 patients, 1674 patients with preserved EF≥50% (median age: 85years, 72% female) were selected for calculation of the H2FPEF score and were dichotomized into two groups: the low H2FPEF score [0-5 points; n=1399 (83.6%)] group and the high H2FPEF score [6-9 points; n=275 (16.4%)] group. Patients with high H2FPEF scores were associated with a higher prevalence of New York Heart Association Functional Class III/IV (59.3% vs. 43.7%, P<0.001), diabetes (24.4% vs. 18.5%, P=0.03), and paradoxical low-flow, low-gradient aortic stenosis (15.9% vs. 6.2%, P<0.001). These patients showed worse prognoses than those with low H2FPEF scores regarding the cumulative 2year all-cause mortality (26.3% vs. 15.5%, log-rank P<0.001), cardiovascular mortality (10.5% vs. 5.4%, log-rank P<0.001), HF hospitalization (16.2% vs. 6.7%, log-rank P<0.001), and the composite endpoint of cardiovascular mortality and HF hospitalization (23.8% vs. 10.8%, log-rank P<0.001). After adjustment for several confounders, the high H2FPEF scores were independently associated with increased risk for all-cause mortality [adjusted hazard ratio (HR), 1.48; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.09-2.00; P=0.011] and for the composite endpoint of cardiovascular mortality and HF hospitalization (adjusted HR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.38-2.74; P<0.001). Subgroup analysis confirmed the excess risk of high H2FPEF scores relative to low H2FPEF scores for the composite endpoint of cardiovascular mortality and HF hospitalization increased with a lower Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) score (STS score <8%: adjusted HR, 2.40; 95% CI, 1.50-3.85; P<0.001; STS score ≥8%: adjusted HR, 1.34; 95% CI, 0.79-2.28; P=0.28; Pinteraction=0.030). The H2FPEF score is useful for predicting long-term adverse outcomes after TAVI, including all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and HF hospitalization for patients with preserved EF. More aggressive interventions targeting HFpEF in addition to the TAVI procedure might be relevant in patients with high H2FPEF scores, particularly in those with a lower surgical risk.

Trends in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Utilization, Outcomes, and Healthcare Resource Use in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis: A Decade of Insights (2011-2020).

It is well known that individuals with liver cirrhosis are considered high risk for cardiac surgery, with an increased risk for morbidity and mortality as the liver disease progresses. In the last decade, there have been considerable advances in transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) as an alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) in individuals deemed to high risk for surgery. However, research surrounding TAVI in the setting of liver cirrhosis has not been as widely studied. In this national population-based cohort study, we evaluated the trends of mortality, complications, and healthcare utilization in liver cirrhotic patients undergoing TAVI, as well as analyze the basic demographics of these individuals. We found that from 2011-2020, the amount of TAVI procedures conducted in cirrhotic patients was increasing annually while the mortality, procedural complications, and healthcare utilization trends in these cirrhotic patients undergoing TAVI decreased. Overall, TAVI does seem to be a reasonable management for aortic stenosis patients with liver cirrhosis who need aortic valve replacement.

Incidence and Predictors of Readmissions to Non-Index Hospitals After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in the Contemporary Era in New South Wales, Australia

In Australia, transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is only performed in a limited number of specialised metropolitan centres, many of which are private hospitals, making it likely that TAVI patients who require readmission will present to another (non-index) hospital. It is important to understand the impact of non-index readmission on patient outcomes and healthcare resource utilisation. We analysed linked hospital and death records for residents of New South Wales, Australia, aged ≥18 years, who had an emergency readmission within 90 days following a TAVI procedure in 2013-2022. Mixed-effect, multi-level logistic regression models were used to evaluate predictors of non-index readmission, and associations between non-index readmission and readmission length of stay, 90-day mortality, and 1-year mortality. Of 4,198 patients (mean age, 82.7 years; 40.6% female) discharged alive following TAVI, 933 (22.2%) were readmitted within 90 days of discharge. Over three-quarters (76.0%) of those readmitted returned to a non-index hospital, with no significant difference in readmission principal diagnosis between index hospital and non-index hospital readmissions. Among readmitted patients, independent predictors of non-index readmission included: residence in regional or remote areas, lower socio-economic status, having a pre-procedure transfer, and a private index hospital. Readmission length of stay (median, 4 days), 90-day mortality (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.56-1.96) and 1-year mortality (adjusted OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.64-1.58) were similar between index and non-index readmissions. Non-index readmission following TAVI was highly prevalent but not associated with increased mortality or healthcare utilisation. Our results are reassuring for TAVI patients in regional and remote areas with limited access to return to index TAVI hospitals.

The role of the vascular surgeon in transcatheter aortic valve implantation.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has become the standard treatment for severe aortic valve stenosis in patients at increased surgical risk. Percutaneous transfemoral (TF) is the access of choice due to its reduced invasiveness and perioperative morbidity/mortality compared with the trans-axillary, aortic, and apical routes. On the other hand, vascular access complications (VACs) of the TF access are associated with prolonged hospitalization, 30-day, and 1-year mortality. In addition, the concomitance of peripheral arterial disease may require associated endovascular management. A multidisciplinary team with Interventional Cardiologists and Vascular Surgeons may minimize the rate of VACs in patients with challenging femoral-iliac access or concomitant disease of other vascular districts, thus optimizing the outcome of TF-TAVI. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of Vascular Surgeons in TF TAVI procedures. We conducted a retrospective single-center review of all TF-TAVI procedures assisted by Vascular Surgeons between January 2016 and December 2020 in a high-volume tertiary hospital. Pre, intra, and postoperative data were analyzed by a dedicated group of Interventional Cardiologists and Vascular Surgeons. VACs were defined according with the Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC) three guidelines. The outcomes of TF-TAVI procedures with Vascular Surgeons involvement were assessed as study's endpoints. Overall, 937 TAVI procedures were performed with a TF approach ranging between 78% (2016) and 98% (2020). Vascular Surgeons were involved in 67 (7%) procedures with the following indications: concomitant abdominal aortic aneurysm (EVAR + TAVI) - 3 (4%), carotid stenosis (TAVI + CAS) - 2 (3%), hostile femoral/iliac access, or VACs - 62 (93%). Balloon angioplasty of iliac artery pre-TAVI implantation was performed in 51 cases (conventional PTA: 38/51%-75%; conventional PTA + intravascular lithotripsy: 13/51%-25%; stenting: 5/51%-10%). TAVI procedure was successfully completed by percutaneous TF approach in all 62 cases with challenging femoral/iliac access. VACs necessitating interventions were 18/937 (2%) cases, localized to the common femoral or common/external iliac artery in 15/18 (83%) and 3/18 (17%) cases, respectively. They were managed by surgical or endovascular maneuvers in 3/18 (17%) and 15/18 (83%) cases, respectively. Fifteen/18 (83%) VACs were treated during the index procedure. There was no procedure-related mortality or 30-day readmission. In our experience, Vascular Surgeon assistance in TAVI procedures was not infrequent and allowed safe and effective device introduction through challenging TF access. Similarly, the concomitant significant disease of other vascular districts could be safely addressed, potentially reducing postoperative related mortality and morbidity. The implementation of multidisciplinary team with interventional cardiologists and vascular surgeons should be encouraged whenever possible.

Enhancing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) outcomes through virtual proctoring: a case series analysis

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) represents a pivotal advancement in the management of severe aortic stenosis, offering a minimally invasive alternative to surgical valve replacement. Despite its widespread adoption, the complexity of TAVI procedures, especially in high-risk anatomical scenarios such as valve-in-valve interventions, necessitates ongoing educational support for operators. This article explores the implementation of a virtual proctoring system for complex TAVI procedures, evaluating its feasibility, educational value, and impact on procedural success and safety.

Hemodynamic performance of self-expandable transcatheter aortic valve replacement systems during valve deployment.

Little is known about valve hemodynamic performance during the Evolut and Neo deployment course. We aimed to evaluate transvalvular mean and peak-to-peak gradients over several intraprocedural timepoints during TAVR with Evolut PRO+ (Medtronic) and Neo (Boston Scientific) systems. This was single-center pilot sub-study from the SavvyWire EFficacy and SafEty in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Procedures (SAFE-TAVI) trial. Participants received either the Evolut PRO+ or Neo for native valve severe aortic stenosis and the SavvyWire (OpSens Medical) was used for device delivery, pacing, and continuous left ventricular and aortic pressure measurements. For the Evolut, evaluation was done for baseline, two-thirds of valve deployment (still recapturable), 90% of valve deployment (no longer recapturable), and post-deployment hemodynamics. For the Neo, analysis was done at baseline, after the first step (top-crown deployment), and at final status. Nineteen patients were included (Evolut = 15; Neo = 4). There were no statistically significant changes in peak-to-peak gradients (44 mm Hg [IQR:33-69] vs 43 mm Hg [IQR:26-62], P = .41) between baseline and two-thirds of valve deployment in the Evolut patients. There was a significant decrease in mean (40 mm Hg [IQR:32-54] vs 14 mm Hg [IQR:10-18], P less than .001) and peak-to-peak (43 mmHg [IQRS:26-62] vs 9 mm Hg [IQR:8-13], P less than .001) transvalvular gradients between two-thirds and 90% of valve deployment for Evolut. Neo patients exhibited a decrease in transvalvular gradients after top-crown deployment (42.5 mm Hg baseline vs 13 mm Hg). Transvalvular gradients did not vary between the point of "no-recapture" compared to baseline values in patients receiving the Evolut, whereas a significant reduction in transvalvular gradients was observed when the valve was deployed at 90% and fully deployed. The Neo valve was slightly obstructive after the first step of deployment.

Choice of anesthesia technique is associated with earlier hospital discharge and reduced costs after transcatheter transfemoral aortic valve implantation.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has become a viable alternative to palliation in patients with severe aortic stenosis. We compared general anesthesia to conscious sedation for TAVI procedures with respect to post operative morbidity, hospital length of stay, and financial burden. We conducted a retrospective review of prospectively collected data in patients undergoing transfemoral TAVI procedures from 2012 to 2017. Patients were matched based on age and sex and classed into either general anesthesia or conscious sedation groups respectively. Conscious sedation was provided with a dexmedetomidine infusion, and patients in general anesthesia group received a standard induction, tracheal intubation, and maintenance with sevoflurane. The hospital case costs were compared between the two groups before and after adjustment for inflation. We matched 124 pairs for a total of 248 patients. Both groups were similar with respect to demographic data, past medical history, medications, and intraoperative characteristics. There was no difference in postoperative morbidity and mortality between the two groups. The median hospital length of stay was 5 [interquartile range (IQR): 3, 10] and 7 (IQR: 4, 12) days, P=0.01, and after adjustment for inflation, the total hospital case costs were $48,984 (IQR: $44,802, $61,438) Canadian (CAD) vs. $55,333 (IQR: $46,832, $68,702) CAD, P=0.01, in the conscious sedation and general anesthesia groups, respectively. Advancements in TAVI technologies, conscious sedation and a collaborative, multidisciplinary team approach reduces overall length of hospital stay and procedure costs.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation with and without mitral stenosis — A national readmission database study

IntroductionMitral valve stenosis (MS) can be concomitantly present in patients undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI). Some studies have reported up to one-fifth of patients who underwent TAVI also have MS. The relationship between mitral stenosis and TAVI has led to concerns regarding increased adverse cardiac outcomes during and after the procedure. MethodsThe Nationwide Readmission Database (NRD 2016–2019) was utilized to identify TAVI patients with MS with ICD-10-CM codes. The primary outcome was a 30-day readmission rate. Secondary outcomes included predictors of all-cause readmissions, length of stay, and total hospitalization cost. We assessed readmission frequency with a national sample weighed at 30 days following the index TAVI procedure. Unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios were analyzed for in-hospital outcomes using univariate and multivariate logistic regression for study cohorts. ResultsA total of 217,147 patients underwent TAVI procedures during the queried time period of the study. Of these patients, 2140 (0.98 %) had MS. The overall 30-day all-cause readmission rate for the study cohort was 12.4 %. TAVI patients with MS had higher rates of 30-day readmissions (15.8 % vs 12.3 %, aOR 1.22, CI: 1.03–1.45, P < 0.01). Additionally, TAVI patients with MS had longer lengths of hospital stay during index admissions (5.7 vs. 4.3 days), along with higher total hospitalization costs ($55,157 vs. $50,239). In contrast, in-hospital mortality during index TAVI admission did not differ significantly between the two groups, although there was a trend toward higher mortality in the MS group (2.1 % vs. 1.5 %). Among the TAVI MS cohort, patients admitted on weekends (aOR: 1.11, 95 % CI: 1.02–1.22, P = 0.01), admitted to non-metropolitan hospitals (aOR: 1.29, 95 % CI: 1.11–1.66, P = 0.04) and presence of co-morbidities such as atrial fibrillation (AF)/flutter (aOR: 1.24, 95 % CI: 1.16–1.32, P < 0.01), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (aOR: 1.16, 95 % CI: 1.11–1.22, P < 0.01), prior stroke (aOR: 1.09, 95 % CI: 1.03–1.14, P < 0.01), chronic kidney disease (CKD) ≥3 (aOR: 1.16, 95 % CI: 1.11–1.22, P < 0.01), end-stage renal disease (ESRD) (aOR: 1.75, 95 % CI: 1.61–1.90, P < 0.01), and anemia (aOR: 1.23, 95 % CI: 1.18–1.28, P < 0.01) were associated with increased odds of readmission. ConclusionConcomitant MS in patients undergoing TAVI is associated with higher readmission rates and total hospital costs. This can contribute significantly to healthcare-related burdens. Further studies are required to evaluate in-hospital outcomes and predictors of readmission in patients undergoing TAVI with the presence of concomitant MS.

Eventos hemorrágicos tardíos en pacientes de TAVI anticoagulados con antagonistas de la vitamina K o anticoagulantes orales de acción directa

Introduction and objectivesThe optimal chronic antithrombotic regimen for patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) remains uncertain. Our aim was to compare the incidence of late bleeding events between patients on direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) and those on vitamin-K antagonists (VKA). MethodsThis single-center observational study included TAVI patients requiring oral anticoagulation at discharge between 2015 and 2021. The primary endpoint was any clinically significant bleeding event. Secondary endpoints were stroke, heart failure, and all-cause mortality. ResultsA total of 702 TAVI procedures were performed, with 297 patients requiring oral anticoagulation at discharge. Among them, 206 (69.4%) received VKA and 91 (30.6%) received DOAC. Baseline clinical, procedural and in-hospital characteristics did not significantly differ between groups, except for better renal function among DOAC patients. The median length of follow-up was 2.8 years. The risk of bleeding events was higher in patients receiving DOACs than in those receiving VKA (HR=2.27; 95%CI, 1.21-4.26; incidence of 9.7 and 4.2 events per 100 patient-years of follow-up for DOAC and VKA patients, respectively). There were no statistically significant differences in the rates of stroke (HR, 1.28; 95%CI, 0.4-4.3), heart failure hospitalization (HR, 0.92; 95%CI, 0.46-1.86), or all-cause mortality (HR, 1.02; 95%CI, 0.68-1.55). ConclusionsIn older patients undergoing TAVI and receiving anticoagulant therapy for atrial fibrillation, the use of DOAC was associated with a higher risk of late bleeding events than VKA.

Acute Effect in Mechanical Efficiency by Pressure-Volume Loop Analysis after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation.

This study aimed to evaluate the immediate effect of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) on mechanical efficiency. A total of 46 patients (25 females) with an average age of 83 ± 6.4 years underwent TAVI using the CoreValve system. During the same hospitalization, we conducted a comprehensive comparison of the patients before and after TAVI without inotropic support using echocardiography. The parameters encompassed left ventricular (LV) geometry, valvular load, global LV afterload and ventricular hemodynamics. The analysis using pressure-volume loops enabled the determination of load-independent contractility (Ees) and afterload, in addition to assessing potential energy, stroke work, and mechanical efficiency. The immediate effect was an augmented aortic valve area accompanied by a reduction in the transvalvular pressure gradient. We observed reductions in left ventricular end-systolic volume and end-diastolic volume, and also reductions in global afterload and end-systolic meridional wall stress. The Ea index decreased, while the Ees index remained relatively stable. We noted increases in stroke volume and systemic arterial compliance, indicating more efficient blood transfer from the ventricle to aorta. These changes contributed to the normalization of ventricular-arterial coupling. In terms of mechanical work of the chamber, we observed significant decreases in potential energy, stroke work, and pressure-volume area. There was an increase in the mechanical efficiency of the chamber. The TAVI procedure immediately reduced global afterload and improved diastolic compliance of the chamber, resulting in enhanced ventricular function and mechanical efficiency.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Wait-Time Management: Derivation and Validation of the Canadian TAVI Triage Tool (CAN3T).

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has seen indication expansion and thus exponential growth in demand over the past decade. In many jurisdictions, the growing demand has outpaced capacity, increasing wait times and preprocedural adverse events. In this study, we derived prediction models that estimate the risk of adverse events on the waitlist and developed a triage tool to identify patients who should be prioritized for TAVI. We included adult patients in Ontario, Canada referred for TAVI and followed up until one of the following events first occurred: death, TAVI procedure, removal from waitlist, or end of the observation period. We used subdistribution hazards models to find significant predictors for each of the following outcomes: (1) all-cause death while on the waitlist; (2) all-cause hospitalization while on the waitlist; (3) receipt of urgent TAVI; and (4) a composite outcome. The median predicted risk at 12 weeks was chosen as a threshold for a maximum acceptable risk while on the waitlist and incorporated in the triage tool to recommend individualized wait times. Of 13 128 patients, 586 died while on the waitlist, and 4343 had at least 1 hospitalization. A total of 6854 TAVIs were completed, of which 1135 were urgent procedures. We were able to create parsimonious models for each outcome that included clinically relevant predictors. The Canadian TAVI Triage Tool (CAN3T) is a triage tool to assist clinicians in the prioritization of patients who should have timely access to TAVI. We anticipate that the CAN3T will be a valuable tool as it may improve equity in access to care, reduce preventable adverse events, and improve system efficiency.

Sedation with Ketamine-Propofol in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: A Comparative Retrospective Study on General Anesthesia.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is used for patients with severe aortic stenosis who are at high risk for surgery. Since these patients are elderly and have comorbidities, their management is of great importance. This retrospective study compares two anesthesia techniques during TAVI: sedation (ketamine and propofol) and general anesthesia. Patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing TAVI during 2021 in our hospital were retrospectively screened. Demographic data, comorbidities, anesthesia management, complications, and mortality of the patients were obtained from the records. There were 137 patients treated with TAVI; 74 (54%) patients had sedation and 63 (46%) had general anesthesia. When the anesthesia management was evaluated, no significant difference in mortality was observed between the patients who received general anesthesia and sedation. After univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate factors having an impact on mortality, anemia (only in univariate analysis) in the whole study population was a statistically significant risk factor for mortality in patients undergoing TAVI (p<0.014). There was no significant difference in mortality in terms of anesthesia management. Anemia was a risk factor for mortality (only in univariate analysis) in the whole study population. We concluded that conscious sedation with ketamine and propofol is effective and safe for TAVI procedures compared to general anesthesia.

Single-Center Experience with the Balloon-Expandable Myval Transcatheter Aortic Valve System in Patients with Bicuspid Anatomy: Procedural and 30-Day Follow-Up.

Aims: To report our single-center data regarding the initial 52 consecutive patients with a bicuspid aortic valve who underwent a Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) procedure using the new balloon-expandable MYVAL system. The focus is on reporting procedural details and outcomes over the 30-day postoperative period. Methods: From December 2019 to July 2023, 52 consecutive patients underwent a TAVI procedure with bicuspid anatomy. All patients had moderate to-high surgical risk or were unsuitable for surgical aortic valve replacement based on the Heart Team's decision. Outcomes were analyzed according to the VARC-2 criteria. The results of bicuspid patients were compared to patients with tricuspid anatomy in the overall study group, and further analysis involved a comparison between 52 pairs after propensity score matching. The device performance was evaluated using transthoracic echocardiography. Data collection was allowed by the Local Ethical Committee. Results: The mean age was 71 ± 7.1 years, and 65.4% were male. The mean Euroscore II and STS score were 3.3 ± 3.2 and 5.2 ± 3.3, respectively. Baseline characteristics and echocardiographic parameters were well balanced even in the unmatched comparison. Procedures were significantly longer in the bicuspid group and resulted in a significantly higher ARI index. All relevant anatomic dimensions based on the CT scans were significantly higher in bicuspid anatomy, including a higher implantation angulation, a higher rate of horizontal aorta and a higher proportion of patients with aortopathy. In the unmatched bicuspid vs. tricuspid comparison, postprocedural outcomes were as follows: in-hospital mortality 0% vs. 1.4% (p = 0.394), device success 100% vs. 99.1% (p = 0.487), TIA 1.9% vs. 0% (p = 0.041), stroke 1.9% vs. 0.9% (p = 0.537), major vascular complication 3.8% vs. 2.3% (p = 0.530), permanent pacemaker implantation 34% vs. 30.4% (p = 0.429), and cardiac tamponade 0% vs. 0.5% (p = 0.624). In the propensity-matched bicuspid vs. tricuspid comparison, postprocedural outcomes were as follows: in-hospital mortality 0% vs. 0%, device success 100% vs. 100%, TIA 1.9% vs. 0% (p = 0.315), stroke 1.9% vs. 0.9% (p = 0.315), major vascular complication 3.8% vs. 0% (p = 0.475), permanent pacemaker implantation 34% vs. 24% (p = 0.274), and cardiac tamponade 0% vs. 0%. There was no annular rupture nor need for second valve or severe aortic regurgitation in both the unmatched and matched comparison. The peak and mean aortic gradients did not differ at discharge and at 30-day follow-up between the two groups regardless of whether the comparison was unmatched or matched. There were no paravalvular leakages (moderate or above) in the bicuspid patients. Intermediate and extra sizes of the Myval THV system used a significantly higher proportion in bicuspid anatomy with a significantly higher oversize percentage in tricuspid anatomy. Conclusions: The TAVI procedure using the Myval THV system in patients with significant aortic stenosis and bicuspid aortic valve anatomy is safe and effective. Hemodynamic parameters do not differ between tricuspid and bicuspid patients. However, the permanent pacemaker implantation rate is higher than expected; its relevance on long-term survival is controversial.

Successful Repositioning of Left Ventricular Wire after Advancing Delivery System in a Transapical Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Procedure: A Case Report

Successful Repositioning of Left Ventricular Wire after Advancing Delivery System in a Transapical Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Procedure: A Case Report

Our Experience in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) from the Anesthesiologist's Perspective: A Single-Center Retrospective Study

Objectives This study is aimed to review the perioperative complications, morbidity, and mortality rates of patients undergoing TAVI at our tertiary care hospital. Material and Methods The data for this retrospective study including 34 patients was collected from medical records of the patients. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 26 programme. The results were considered statistically significant at p&lt;0.05. Results The study cohort, predominantly the elderly population (mean age 77.3 years), underwent TAVI under local anesthesia and sedation. Anesthetic induction involved fentanyl, ketamine and midazolam, with adjustments using propofol as needed. Hypotension emerged as the most common anesthesia-related complication. Importantly, the procedure was completed with conscious sedation in all cases that are not complicated by surgery, with no instances of respiratory complications. The most frequent procedure-related complication was atrioventricular bundle branch block. Postoperative outcomes demonstrated a significant reduction in aortic valve parameters, validating the efficacy of the procedure. Notably, the 30- and 90-day mortality rates were 0%, indicating favorable short-term survival. The study highlighted the importance of maintaining hemodynamic stability through vasopressors, with noradrenaline being the preferred choice. While the overall length of hospital stay averaged six days, the study emphasized the evolving landscape of TAVI, with shorter hospitalizations attributed to increasing procedural experience and refined anesthetic approaches. The need for permanent pacemaker was observed in 20% of cases. Conclusion This comprehensive analysis contributes valuable insights into the evolving field of TAVI, emphasizing the role of experienced anesthesiologists in optimizing patient outcomes. The study underscores the importance of refining anesthesia protocols, staying abreast of emerging guidelines and developing solution algorithms for emergency scenarios, ultimately enhancing the safety and efficacy of TAVI procedures in a rapidly expanding patient population.

Preoperative computed tomography-imaging with patient-specific computer simulation in transcatheter aortic valve implantation: Design and rationale of the GUIDE-TAVI trial

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is an established treatment option for patients with severe aortic valve stenosis, but is still associated with relatively high rates of pacemaker implantation and paravalvular regurgitation. Routine preoperative computed tomography (CT) combined with patient-specific computer modelling can predict the interaction between the TAVI device and the patient's unique anatomy, allowing physicians to assess the risk for paravalvular regurgitation and conduction disorders in advance to the procedure. The aim of this trial is to assess potential improvement in the procedural outcome of TAVI by applying CT-based patient-specific computer simulations in patients with suitable anatomy for TAVI. The GUIDE-TAVI trial is an international multicenter randomized controlled trial including patients accepted for TAVI by the Heart Team. Patients enrolled in the study will be randomized into 2 arms of each 227 patients. In patients randomized to the use of FEops HEARTGuide (FHG), patient-specific computer simulation with FHG is performed in addition to routine preoperative CT imaging and results of the FHG are available to the operator(s) prior to the scheduled intervention. In patients randomized to no use of FHG, only routine preoperative CT imaging is performed. The primary objective is to evaluate whether the use of FHG will reduce the incidence of mild to severe PVR, according to the Valve Academic Research Consortium 3. Secondary endpoints include the incidence of new conduction disorders requiring permanent pacemaker implantation, the difference between preoperative and final selected valve size, the difference between target and final implantation depth, change of preoperative decision, failure to implant valve, early safety composite endpoint and quality of life. The GUIDE-TAVI trial is the first multicenter randomized controlled trial to evaluate the value of 3-dimensional computer simulations in addition to standard preprocedural planning in TAVI procedures.

Outcomes of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation under Transfemoral Approach Versus Alternative Approach in King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital

Background: The transfemoral approach (TF) is the access of choice for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). However, approximately 10% of patients have anatomy or comorbidity unsuitable for TF. Objective: To analyze the outcomes of an alternative approach compared with TF in the authors’ institute. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing TAVI in King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital between December 2010 and 2021 was conducted. The present study compared the baseline characteristics, outcomes, and complications of TAVI procedures, including one-year mortality, according to whether they were performed through a TF or alternative approach. Results: Among 210 patients that underwent TAVI, 188 (89.6%) were in the TF group and 22 (10.4%) were in the alternative group with seven in the trans-subclavian, nine in the transapical, and six in the transaortic. The mean age of the population was 81 years. Patients in the alternative group had more severe disease (median logistic EuroSCORE-II 19.67 versus 10.01, p&lt;0.001). Other baseline characteristics were not different between groups. According to the Valve Academic Research Consortium 3 (VARC-3) criteria, there were higher mortality and complication rates in the alternative group but no statistical differences regarding 30-day mortality of TF at 2.1% versus alternative at 9.1% (p=0.121) and 1-year mortality of TF at 5.3% versus alternative at 13.6% (p=0.143). Hospitalization times were significantly longer in the alternative group (median hospital stay in days of TF 4 versus alternative 10, p=0.013). Although no statistical significance was found, there were trends towards a higher rate of valve malpoition for TF at 3.7% versus alternative at 13.6%, and major vascular complications for TF at 1.6% versus alternative at 9.1%. Conclusion: The authors’ institute data demonstrates alternative approach TAVI was associated with a similar mortality rate and post-procedural complication rate compared with transfemoral TAVI, except for a trend toward a higher rate of valve malposition and major vascular complications. The alternative approach TAVI may be favored in patients with high or prohibitive surgical risk unsuitable for transfemoral TAVI. Keywords: Transcatheter aortic valve implantation; TAVI; Alternative approach; Transfemoral; Operative outcomes

The feasibility of relaxation-enhanced angiography without contrast and triggering for preprocedural planning of transcatheter aortic valve implantation.

Cardiovascular MRI is advantageous in transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) planning. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of comprehensive non-contrast MRI [relaxation-enhanced angiography without contrast and triggering (REACT)] combined with a three-dimensional whole-heart MRI protocol for preprocedural planning of TAVI vs. computed tomography angiography (CTA). Thirty patients with severe aortic stenosis were prospectively enrolled. The anatomical properties of the aortic root anatomy, including the perimeter and area of the virtual aortic valve annulus and coronary heights, were determined from 3D whole-heart MRI and cardiac CTA (CCTA) images, respectively. The diameters of the aorta (thoracic and abdominal aorta) and iliofemoral arteries were measured from REACT and aortic CTA (ACTA) images, respectively. A paired t-test was used to compare these two modalities. Bland-Altman plots were used to assess cardiovascular MRI and CTA measurements. Transcatheter heart valve (THV) sizing was performed based on CCTA measurements and compared with 3D whole-heart MRI measurements. The extent of annular calcification on 3D whole-heart MRI images was evaluated by a four-point grading scale and compared with CCTA data. All 30 patients completed CTA and cardiovascular MRI examinations, with the TAVI procedure being administered in 25 patients. The mean acquisition time of the comprehensive MRI protocol was 18 ± 3.2 min. There were no significant differences between ACTA and REACT data in regard to the diameters of aortic and iliofemoral arteries, including the ascending thoracic aorta (37 ± 4.6 mm vs. 37.7 ± 5.2 mm, p = 0.085), descending thoracic aorta (24.3 ± 2.8 mm vs. 24.3 ± 2.8 mm, p = 0.832), abdominal aorta (20.9 ± 2.5 mm vs. 20.8 ± 2.5 mm, p = 0.602), bilateral common iliac arteries (right: 8.36 ± 1.44 mm vs. 8.42 ± 1.27 mm, p = 0.590; left: 8.61 ± 1.71 mm vs. 8.86 ± 1.46 mm, p = 0.050), and bilateral femoral arteries (right: 6.77 ± 1.06 mm vs. 6.87 ± 1.00 mm, p = 0.157; left: 6.75 ± 1.02 mm vs. 6.90 ± 0.80 mm, p = 0.142). Both modalities showed similar aortic valve morphology and semi-quantitative valve calcification (all, p's > 0.05). Overall agreement for implanted THV was found in all 25 (100%) patients assessed with both modalities. REACT combined with 3D whole-heart MRI enables reliable measurements of aortic root anatomy, annular calcification, and aorta and iliofemoral access in patients under evaluation for TAVI.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation with commissural alignment

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is commonly accepted method of treatment of aortic stenosis in most patients with currently increasing number of TAVI procedures. Patients after TAVI frequently have indications for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) that might be technically challenging due to the presence of transcatheter valve. Compromising coronary ostia involves such issues as design of the prosthesis and its position in the aortic root with respect to the commissures of native aortic valve. Since TAVI with commissural alignment can mitigate risk of compromising coronary ostia, this option should be considered while planning TAVI, especially in younger patients with coronary atherosclerosis and relatively high probability of PCI in the future. The algorithm of commissural alignment in clinical practice of TAVI up to date has been proposed only for several transcatheter heart valves reported in this paper.