Arrhythmia Burden in Elderly Patients With Severe Aortic Stenosis as Determined by Continuous Electrocardiographic Recording

Left ventricular mechanical dispersion as a predictor of the need for pacemaker implantation after transcatheter aortic valve implantation: MeDiPace TAVI study

AIMS

Permanent pacemaker (PM) implantation is common after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Left ventricular mechanical dispersion (MeDi) by speckle tracking echocardiography is a marker of fibrosis that causes alterations in the conduction system. We hypothesized that MeDi can be a predictor of the need for PM implantation after TAVI.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Consecutively, 200 TAVI patients were enrolled. Transthoracic echocardiography and electrocardiography examinations were recorded before TAVI to evaluate global longitudinal strain (GLS), MeDi, and conduction disturbances. PM implantation information was obtained 3 months after TAVI. Patients were stratified into PM or no PM group. Mean age was 80 + 7 years (44% women). Twenty-nine patients (16%) received PM. MeDi, QRS duration, existence of right bundle branch abnormality (RBBB), and first-degree atrioventricular (AV) block were significantly different between groups. MeDi was 57 ± 15 ms and 48 ± 12 ms in PM and no PM groups, respectively (P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, MeDi predicted the need for PM after TAVI independently of GLS, QRS duration, RBBB, and first-degree AV block [odds ratio (OR): 1.73, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.22-2.45] with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.68 in receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Moreover, RBBB was an independent predictor of PM need after TAVI (OR: 8.98, 95% CI: 1.78-45.03). When added to RBBB, MeDi had an incremental predictive value with an AUC of 0.73 in ROC curves (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

MeDi may be used as an echocardiographic functional predictor of the need for PM after TAVI.

A Systematic Review of Delayed High-Grade Atrioventricular Block After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

Background

High-grade atrioventricular block (HGAVB) is common after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), often necessitating permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation. Delayed HGAVB has varying definitions but typically refers to onset 48 hours after TAVI or following discharge and may cause syncope and sudden cardiac death. This review estimates the incidence of delayed HGAVB and identifies limitations of current literature.

Methods

A systematic review was performed of the following online databases: Medline, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Scopus. Studies that labelled the outcome of "delayed" or "late" atrioventricular block after TAVI were included; patients with previous PPM or aortic valve surgery were excluded. Initial search yielded 775 studies, which, after screening, was narrowed to 19 studies.

Results

Nineteen studies with 14,898 patients were included. Mean age was 81.7 years, and 46.3% were male. Mean Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) score was 5.6%, and 31.3% of patients had known atrial fibrillation. The most common access site was transfemoral (84.8%), whereas balloon-expandable valves were used in 62.1%, self-expanding valves in 34.0%, and mechanically expanding valves in 3.9% of cases. The incidence of delayed HGAVB ranged from 1.7% to 14.6%, with significant methodologic heterogeneity noted among the included studies.

Conclusions

Delayed HGAVB is a common and potentially serious complication of TAVI, with similar risk factors to acute HGAVB. With a move toward an early discharge strategy post-TAVI, further prospective study of delayed HGAVB is warranted to improve understanding of predisposing factors, incidence, timing, and implications.

Atrial fibrillation in severe aortic stenosis: Prognostic value and results of aortic valve replacement

OBJECTIVES

Although atrial fibrillation (AF) is common, its impact on long-term mortality has not been reliably determined in patients with aortic stenosis (AS). We aimed to assess whether AF is associated with survival in patients with severe AS and to determine the impact of AF on the results of aortic valve replacement (AVR).

METHODS

The study included 1838 consecutive patients with severe AS (77 ± 11 years, male 47%). Upon AS diagnosis, patients were screened for AF using a 12-lead electrocardiogram. The treatment strategy (conservative management or AVR) was selected by the heart team in accordance with current guidelines. The effect of AVR on survival was analyzed as a time-dependent covariate using the entire follow-up period.

RESULTS

AF, diagnosed in 593 (32%) patients was associated with poor survival at 5 years (55 ± 2% vs 74 ± 1% for patients in sinus rhythm, P < .001), even after adjustment for established outcome predictors (hazard ratio [HR], 1.56; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.33-1.84; P < .001). In patients with AF, AVR was associated with lower mortality (HR, 0.16; 95% CI, 0.12-0.22; P < .001) even in those with no or minimal symptoms (HR, 0.12; 95% CI, 0.08-0.20; P < .001). However, among patients who underwent AVR, those in AF had an excess mortality (HR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.22-2.08; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

In severe AS, AF is a strong predictor of mortality even in asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic patients. After AVR, AF remains associated with poorer survival than sinus rhythm. In patients in AF, AVR is associated with lower mortality compared with conservative treatment. Further studies are needed to confirm the benefits of AVR in asymptomatic patients in AF with severe AS.

Conductive disturbances in the transcatheter aortic valve implantation setting: An appraisal of current knowledge and unmet needs

New-onset conduction disturbances, including left bundle branch block and permanent pacemaker implantation, remain a major issue after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Preprocedural risk assessment in current practice is most often limited to evaluation of the baseline electrocardiogram, whereas it may benefit from a multimodal approach, including ambulatory electrocardiogram monitoring and multidetector computed tomography. Physicians may encounter equivocal situations during the hospital phase, and the management of follow-up is not fully defined, despite the publication of several expert consensuses and the inclusion of recommendations regarding the role of electrophysiology studies and postprocedural monitoring in recent guidelines. This review provides an overview of current knowledge and future perspectives regarding the management of new-onset conduction disturbances in the setting of transcatheter aortic valve implantation, from the preprocedural phase to long-term follow-up.

Syncope in Patients With Severe Aortic Stenosis Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

BACKGROUND

No data exist on the clinical and prognostic significance of syncope in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for severe aortic stenosis.

METHODS

A total of 1705 consecutive patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing TAVR in a tertiary university centre between 2007 and 2021 were included and classified according to the presence of syncope before the TAVR procedure. Baseline, procedural, and follow-up data were collected prospectively in a dedicated database.

RESULTS

A total of 115 patients (7%) presented with syncope before the TAVR procedure. Of these, 15 patients (13%) showed arrhythmic episodes as the probable cause of the syncope, and all of them had pacemakers implanted at a median of 13 (6 to 53) days before the TAVR procedure. Patients with syncope were older (82 ± 8 years vs 80 ± 8 years, P = 0.001) and had a higher rate of pacemaker implantation before the TAVR procedure (27% vs 14%, P < 0.001), with no differences between groups regarding the severity of aortic stenosis (transvalvular gradient, valve area). There were no differences between groups in 30-day (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 1.28; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.46-3.60) and 1-year (adjusted HR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.0.35-1.45) mortality following TAVR.

CONCLUSIONS

Syncope was not associated with a more advanced valvular disease and had no significant prognostic impact on patients undergoing TAVR. However, arrhythmias and conduction-system disturbances were more common in patients with previous syncope and might play a relevant role in the pathogenesis of syncope in patients with aortic stenosis.

Arrhythmic syncope: From diagnosis to management

Syncope is a concerning symptom that affects a large proportion of patients. It can be related to a heterogeneous group of pathologies ranging from trivial causes to diseases with a high risk of sudden death. However, benign causes are the most frequent, and identifying high-risk patients with potentially severe etiologies is crucial to establish an accurate diagnosis, initiate effective therapy, and alter the prognosis. The term cardiac syncope refers to those episodes where the cause of the cerebral hypoperfusion is directly related to a cardiac disorder, while arrhythmic syncope is cardiac syncope specifically due to rhythm disorders. Indeed, arrhythmias are the most common cause of cardiac syncope. Both bradyarrhythmia and tachyarrhythmia can cause a sudden decrease in cardiac output and produce syncope. In this review, we summarized the main guidelines in the management of patients with syncope of presumed arrhythmic origin. Therefore, we presented a thorough approach to syncope work-up through different tests depending on the clinical characteristics of the patients, risk stratification, and the management of syncope in different scenarios such as structural heart disease and channelopathies.

Syncope in Aortic Stenosis: Not Always What It Seems

Aortic stenosis is a common valvular pathology and may also have atypical presentations outside the classic triad of chest pain, syncope, and shortness of breath. Some patients may not present with the symptoms of the triad. This patient instead presented with syncope and vomiting. Statistically, the most common cause of syncope at rest in the setting of aortic stenosis is due to an arrhythmia rather than the valve itself limiting cardiac output. In a comorbid Alzheimer's patient who has developed hyperorality, postprandial hypotension can also result in syncope at rest. Therefore, syncope at rest should raise alarm for nonvalvular etiologies such as arrhythmia. This case study also aims to establish an association between syncope at rest and hyperorality in the setting of aortic stenosis, a first study so far. Additionally, it highlights an unusual presentation of aortic stenosis where syncope occurs at rest associated with vomit in the absence of chest pain or shortness of breath.

Incidence and clinical impact of tachyarrhythmic events following transcatheter aortic valve replacement: A review

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is well established for treating severe symptomatic aortic stenosis. Whereas broad information on the epidemiology, clinical implications, and management of bradyarrhythmias after TAVR is available, data about tachyarrhythmic events remain scarce. Despite the progressively lower risk profile of TAVR patients and the improvement in device characteristics and operator skills, approximately 10% of patients develop new-onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF) after TAVR. The proportion of patients in whom NOAF actually corresponds to previously undiagnosed silent atrial fibrillation (AF) has not been properly determined. The transapical approach, the need for pre- or post- balloon dilation, and the presence of periprocedural complications have been associated with a higher risk of NOAF. Older age, left atrial volume, or worse functional class are patient-derived risk factors shared with preprocedural AF. NOAF after TAVR has been associated with poorer survival and a higher incidence of cerebrovascular events. However, patient management differs markedly among different centers, especially with regard to anticoagulation in patients with short-duration AF episodes detected in the periprocedural setting and in cases of silent NOAF detected during continuous electrocardiographic (ECG) monitoring. Evidence about ventricular arrhythmias is even more scarce than for AF. Some case reports of sudden cardiac death after TAVR in patients with a pacemaker have identified ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation in device interrogation. TAVR has been shown to reduce the arrhythmic burden, but a significant proportion of patients (16%) present with complex premature ventricular complex arrhythmias within the year after TAVR. Whether these events are related to poorer outcomes is unknown. Continuous ECG monitoring after TAVR may help describe the frequency, risk factors, and prognostic implications of tachyarrhythmias in this population.

Arrhythmias in Patients With Valvular Heart Disease: Gaps in Knowledge and the Way Forward

The prevalence of both organic valvular heart disease (VHD) and cardiac arrhythmias is high in the general population, and their coexistence is common. Both VHD and arrhythmias in the elderly lead to an elevated risk of hospitalization and use of health services. However, the relationships of the two conditions is not fully understood and our understanding of their coexistence in terms of contemporary management and prognosis is still limited. VHD-induced left ventricular dysfunction/hypertrophy and left atrial dilation lead to both atrial and ventricular arrhythmias. On the other hand, arrhythmias can be considered as an independent condition resulting from a coexisting ischemic or non-ischemic substrate or idiopathic ectopy. Both atrial and ventricular VHD-induced arrhythmias may contribute to clinical worsening and be a turning point in the natural history of VHD. Symptoms developed in patients with VHD are not specific and may be attributable to hemodynamical consequences of valve disease but also to other cardiac conditions including arrhythmias which are notably prevalent in this population. The issue how to distinguish symptoms related to VHD from those related to atrial fibrillation (AF) during decision making process remains challenging. Moreover, AF is a traditional limit of echocardiography and an important source of errors in assessment of the severity of VHD. Despite recent progress in understanding the pathophysiology and prognosis of postoperative AF, many questions remain regarding its prevention and management. Furthermore, life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias can predispose patients with VHD to sudden cardiac death. Evidence for a putative link between arrhythmias and outcome in VHD is growing but available data on targeted therapies for VHD-related arrhythmias, including monitoring and catheter ablation, is scarce. Despite growing evidences, more research focused on the prognosis and optimal management of VHD-related arrhythmias is still required. We aimed to review the current evidence and identify gaps in knowledge about the prevalence, prognostic considerations, and treatment of atrial and ventricular arrhythmias in common subtypes of organic VHD.

Post-operative Atrial Fibrillation Impacts on Outcomes in Transcatheter and Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) in severe aortic stenosis (AS) has poor outcomes after transcatheter and surgical aortic valve replacement (TAVR and SAVR, respectively). We compared the incidence of AF after aortic valve replacement (AVR) according to the treatment method and the impact of AF on outcomes.

Methods: We investigated the incidence of AF and clinical outcomes of AVR according to whether AF occurred after TAVR and SAVR after propensity score (PS)-matching for 1 year follow-up. Clinical outcomes were defined as death, stroke, and admission due to heart failure. The composite outcome comprised death, stroke, and admission due to heart failure.

Results: A total of 221 patients with severe AS were enrolled consecutively, 100 of whom underwent TAVR and 121 underwent SAVR. The incidence of newly detected AF was significantly higher in the SAVR group before PS-matching (6.0 vs. 40.5%, P < 0.001) and after PS-matching (7.5 vs. 35.6%, P = 0.001). TAVR and SAVR showed no significant differences in outcomes except in terms of stroke. In the TAVR group, AF history did not affect the outcomes; however, in the SAVR group, AF history affected death (log rank P = 0.038). Post-AVR AF had a worse impact on admission due to heart failure (log rank P = 0.049) and composite outcomes in the SAVR group. Post-AVR AF had a worse impact on admission due to heart failure (log rank P = 0.008) and composite outcome in the TAVR group.

Conclusion: Post-AVR AF could be considered as a predictor of the outcomes of AVR. TAVR might be a favorable treatment option for patients with severe symptomatic AS who are at high-risk for AF development or who have a history of AF because the occurrence of AF was more frequent in the SAVR group.

Epidemiology, evaluation, and management of conduction disturbances after transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Aortic stenosis is the most common valvulopathy requiring replacement by means of the surgical or transcatheter approach. Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has quickly become a viable and often preferred treatment strategy compared to surgical aortic valve replacement. However, transcatheter heart valve system deployment not infrequently injures the specialized electrical system of the heart, leading to new conduction disorders including high-grade atrioventricular block and complete heart block (CHB) necessitating permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI), which may lead to deleterious effects on cardiac function and patient outcomes. Additional conduction disturbances (e.g., new-onset persistent left bundle branch block, PR/QRS prolongation, and transient CHB) currently lack clearly defined management algorithms leading to variable strategies among institutions. This article outlines the current understanding of the pathophysiology, patient and procedural risk factors, means for further risk stratification and monitoring of patients without a clear indication for PPI, our institutional approach, and future directions in the management and evaluation of post-TAVR conduction disturbances.

Permanent pacemaker implantation late after transcatheter aortic valve implantation

BACKGROUND

Impairment of atrioventricular (AV) conduction may occur late after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), and progression to complete AV block is a matter of concern.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to describe the incidence of permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation late after TAVI.

METHODS

In a prospective TAVI registry, we retrospectively identified patients with PPM implantation after hospital discharge for TAVI and analyzed serial electrocardiograms for AV conduction impairment before PPM implantation.

RESULTS

Among 1059 patients discharged after TAVI without PPM between January 2012 and December 2017, 62 patients (5.9%) underwent PPM implantation at a median of 305 days after discharge for TAVI. Indications for PPM implantation late after TAVI were AV conduction impairment in 46 patients (74.2%); sick sinus syndrome in 10 (16.1%); cardiac resynchronization or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator indication in 2 (3.2%); and a pace and ablate strategy in 4 (6.5%). Clinical symptoms leading to PPM implantation late after TAVI included syncope in 19 patients (30.7%), presyncope in 7 (11.3%), and dyspnea in 8 (12.9%). First-degree AV block and new left bundle branch block (LBBB) after TAVI as well as valve-in-valve procedure during follow-up were independent predictors of PPM implantation late after TAVI due to AV conduction impairment.

CONCLUSION

PPM implantation late after TAVI is infrequent and is associated with clinical symptoms in half of patients. Impairment of AV conduction was the indication in three-quarters of patients. First-degree AV block and new LBBB after TAVI as well as valve-in-valve procedure during follow-up emerged as independent predictors.

Arrhythmic burden in patients with new-onset persistent left bundle branch block after transcatheter aortic valve replacement: 2-year results of the MARE study

AIMS

We determined the incidence and type of arrhythmias at 2-year follow-up in patients with new-onset persistent left bundle branch block (LBBB) following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Multicentre prospective study including 103 consecutive patients with new-onset persistent LBBB post-TAVR (SAPIEN XT/3: 53; CoreValve/Evolut R: 50). An implantable cardiac monitor (Reveal XT, Reveal Linq) was implanted before hospital discharge and patients had continuous monitoring for up to 2 years. Arrhythmic events were adjudicated in a central core lab. 1836 new arrhythmic events (tachyarrhythmias: 1655 and bradyarrhythmias: 181) occurred at 2 years. Of these, 283 (15%) occurred beyond 1 year (tachyarrhythmias 212, bradyarrhythmias 71) in 33 (36%) patients, without differences between valve type. Most late (>1 year) arrhythmic events were asymptomatic (94%) and led to a treatment change in 17 (19%) patients. A total of 71 late bradyarrhythmias [high-degree atrioventricular block (HAVB): 3, severe bradycardia: 68] were detected in 17 (21%) patients. At 2 years, 18 (17%) patients had received a permanent pacemaker (PPM) or implantable cardiac-defibrillator. PPM implantation due to HAVB predominated in the early phase post-TAVR, with only 1 HAVB event requiring PPM implantation after 1 year.

CONCLUSION

Patients with new-onset LBBB post-TAVR exhibited a very high burden of arrhythmic events within the 2 years post-procedure. While new tachyarrhythmic events were homogeneously distributed over time, the vast majority of new HAVB episodes leading to PPM implantation occurred early after the procedure. These results should help to guide the management of this challenging group of patients. (clinicaltrials.gov: NCT02153307).

Comparison of permanent pacemaker implantation rate after first and second generation of transcatheter aortic valve implantation-A retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to compare permanent pacemaker implantation (PPMI) rates among patients undergoing Trans-catheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) with first generation (G1) versus second generation (G2) valves and the impact of PPMI on long-term mortality.

BACKGROUND

PPMI is a known adverse event after TAVI. Recently, two novel iterations of valve designs of both the balloon expandable valves (BEV) and self-expanding valves (SEV) were introduced as a second generation valves.

METHODS

All patients included in the Israeli multicenter TAVI registry were grouped according to valve type (BEV vs. SEV) and generation (G1 vs. G2). A comparison was made for clinical and outcome indices of patients undergoing TAVI with G1 and G2 in each of the valve systems.

RESULTS

A total of 1377 patients were included. The incidence of PPMI did not differ between G1-BEV versus G2-BEV (15.3% vs. 17.4%; p = 0.598) nor between G1-SEV versus G2-SEV (23.4% vs. 20.3%; p = 0.302). Depth of implantation and complete right bundle branch block were independently associated with PPMI post-TAVI in both valve systems. PPMI was not associated with an increased risk for 2-year mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of PPMI remains a relevant adverse event post-TAVI even when the newer generation valves are used. Since the predictors for PPMI are well established, a standardized approach for the management of conduction disorders is much needed.

Natriuretic peptide receptor B maintains heart rate and sinoatrial node function via cyclic GMP-mediated signaling

AIMS

Heart rate (HR) is a critical indicator of cardiac performance that is determined by sinoatrial node (SAN) function and regulation. Natriuretic peptides, including C-type NP (CNP) have been shown to modulate ion channel function in the SAN when applied exogenously. CNP is the only NP that acts as a ligand for natriuretic peptide receptor-B (NPR-B). Despite these properties, the ability of CNP and NPR-B to regulate HR and intrinsic SAN automaticity in vivo, and the mechanisms by which it does so, are incompletely understood. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine the role of NPR-B signaling in regulating HR and SAN function.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We have used NPR-B deficient mice (NPR-B+/-) to study HR regulation and SAN function using telemetry in conscious mice, intracardiac electrophysiology in anesthetized mice, high resolution optical mapping in isolated SAN preparations, patch-clamping in isolated SAN myocytes, and molecular biology in isolated SAN tissue. These studies demonstrate that NPR-B+/- mice exhibit slow HR, increased corrected SAN recovery time, and slowed SAN conduction. Spontaneous AP firing frequency in isolated SAN myocytes was impaired in NPR-B+/- mice due to reductions in the hyperpolarization activated current (If) and L-type Ca2+ current (ICa,L). If and ICa,L were reduced due to lower cGMP levels and increased hydrolysis of cAMP by phosphodiesterase 3 (PDE3) in the SAN. Inhibiting PDE3 or restoring cGMP signaling via application of 8-Br-cGMP abolished the reductions in cAMP, AP firing, If, and ICa,L, and normalized SAN conduction, in the SAN in NPR-B+/- mice. NPR-B+/- mice did not exhibit changes in SAN fibrosis and showed no evidence of cardiac hypertrophy or changes in ventricular function.

CONCLUSIONS

NPR-B plays an essential physiological role in maintaining normal HR and SAN function by modulating ion channel function in SAN myocytes via a cGMP/PDE3/cAMP signaling mechanism.

Systemic corticosteroid exposure and atrioventricular conductance delays after transcatheter aortic valve implantation

BACKGROUND

Atrioventricular conduction delays (AVCD) are common after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) and frequently require implantation of a permanent pacemaker (PPM). Autopsy studies demonstrated the role of ischemia, inflammation, and oedema in the pathogenesis of AVCD. Corticosteroids (CS) reduce inflammation and oedema and hence might lead to a lower rate of AVCD.

METHODS

Based on a prospective single-center registry, we performed a propensity score (PS) matched analysis of subjects treated with or without systemic CS (>2.5 mg prednisolone-equivalent per day) at the time of TAVI. The primary endpoint was a composite of PPM-implantation and new-onset left bundle branch block (LBBB) within 30 days after TAVI.

RESULTS

Among 2213 consecutive patients undergoing TAVI (51.5% female, mean age 82.1 ± 6.1 years) 89 patients were treated with systemic CS, of which 87 were included in the PS matched analysis. At 30 days, rates of the composite of PPM and LBBB were comparable between patients with versus without CS both in the overall cohort (33.7% versus 33.0%, p = 0.89) and the PS matched cohort (34.5% versus 40.2%, p = 0.443). There were no differences in a composite of major or minor vascular complications and major or life-threatening bleeding events between patients with versus without CS in the overall cohort (34.8% versus 26.6%, p = 0.088) or the PS matched cohort (33.3% versus 33.3%, p ≥ 0.999).

CONCLUSION

In this exploratory study, intake of systemic CS among patients undergoing TAVI was not associated with differences in rates of AVCD, vascular complications, or bleeding events after TAVI.

Valve Academic Research Consortium 3: updated endpoint definitions for aortic valve clinical research

Aims 

The Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC), founded in 2010, was intended to (i) identify appropriate clinical endpoints and (ii) standardize definitions of these endpoints for transcatheter and surgical aortic valve clinical trials. Rapid evolution of the field, including the emergence of new complications, expanding clinical indications, and novel therapy strategies have mandated further refinement and expansion of these definitions to ensure clinical relevance. This document provides an update of the most appropriate clinical endpoint definitions to be used in the conduct of transcatheter and surgical aortic valve clinical research.

Methods and results 

Several years after the publication of the VARC-2 manuscript, an in-person meeting was held involving over 50 independent clinical experts representing several professional societies, academic research organizations, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and industry representatives to (i) evaluate utilization of VARC endpoint definitions in clinical research, (ii) discuss the scope of this focused update, and (iii) review and revise specific clinical endpoint definitions. A writing committee of independent experts was convened and subsequently met to further address outstanding issues. There were ongoing discussions with FDA and many experts to develop a new classification schema for bioprosthetic valve dysfunction and failure. Overall, this multi-disciplinary process has resulted in important recommendations for data reporting, clinical research methods, and updated endpoint definitions. New definitions or modifications of existing definitions are being proposed for repeat hospitalizations, access site-related complications, bleeding events, conduction disturbances, cardiac structural complications, and bioprosthetic valve dysfunction and failure (including valve leaflet thickening and thrombosis). A more granular 5-class grading scheme for paravalvular regurgitation (PVR) is being proposed to help refine the assessment of PVR. Finally, more specific recommendations on quality-of-life assessments have been included, which have been targeted to specific clinical study designs.

Conclusions 

Acknowledging the dynamic and evolving nature of less-invasive aortic valve therapies, further refinements of clinical research processes are required. The adoption of these updated and newly proposed VARC-3 endpoints and definitions will ensure homogenous event reporting, accurate adjudication, and appropriate comparisons of clinical research studies involving devices and new therapeutic strategies.

Valve Academic Research Consortium 3: Updated Endpoint Definitions for Aortic Valve Clinical Research

AIMS

The Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC), founded in 2010, was intended to (i) identify appropriate clinical endpoints and (ii) standardize definitions of these endpoints for transcatheter and surgical aortic valve clinical trials. Rapid evolution of the field, including the emergence of new complications, expanding clinical indications, and novel therapy strategies have mandated further refinement and expansion of these definitions to ensure clinical relevance. This document provides an update of the most appropriate clinical endpoint definitions to be used in the conduct of transcatheter and surgical aortic valve clinical research.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Several years after the publication of the VARC-2 manuscript, an in-person meeting was held involving over 50 independent clinical experts representing several professional societies, academic research organizations, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and industry representatives to (i) evaluate utilization of VARC endpoint definitions in clinical research, (ii) discuss the scope of this focused update, and (iii) review and revise specific clinical endpoint definitions. A writing committee of independent experts was convened and subsequently met to further address outstanding issues. There were ongoing discussions with FDA and many experts to develop a new classification schema for bioprosthetic valve dysfunction and failure. Overall, this multi-disciplinary process has resulted in important recommendations for data reporting, clinical research methods, and updated endpoint definitions. New definitions or modifications of existing definitions are being proposed for repeat hospitalizations, access site-related complications, bleeding events, conduction disturbances, cardiac structural complications, and bioprosthetic valve dysfunction and failure (including valve leaflet thickening and thrombosis). A more granular 5-class grading scheme for paravalvular regurgitation (PVR) is being proposed to help refine the assessment of PVR. Finally, more specific recommendations on quality-of-life assessments have been included, which have been targeted to specific clinical study designs.

CONCLUSIONS

Acknowledging the dynamic and evolving nature of less-invasive aortic valve therapies, further refinements of clinical research processes are required. The adoption of these updated and newly proposed VARC-3 endpoints and definitions will ensure homogenous event reporting, accurate adjudication, and appropriate comparisons of clinical research studies involving devices and new therapeutic strategies.

Evolution of high-grade atrioventricular conduction disorders after transcatheter aortic valve implantation in patients who underwent implantation of a pacemaker with specific mode-that minimizes ventricular pacing-activated

INTRODUCTION

The evolution of atrioventricular conduction disorders after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) remains poorly understood. We sought to identify factors associated with late (occurring ≥7 days after the procedure) high-grade atrioventricular blocks after TAVI, based on specific pacemaker memory data.

METHODS AND RESULTS

STIM-TAVI (NCT03338582) was a prospective, multicentre, observational study that enrolled all patients (from November 2015 to January 2017) implanted with a specific dual chamber pacemaker after TAVI, with the SafeR algorithm activated, allowing continuous monitoring of atrioventricular conduction. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of centrally adjudicated late high-grade atrioventricular blocks during the year after TAVI. Among 197 patients, 138 (70.1%) had ≥1 late high-grade atrioventricular block. Whereas oversizing (p = .005), high-grade atrioventricular block during TAVI (p < .001), and early (within 6 days) high-grade atrioventricular block (p < .001) were associated with occurrence of late high-grade atrioventricular block, self-expanding prothesis (p = .88), prior right bundle branch block (p = .45), low implantation (p = .06), and new or wider left bundle branch block and lengthening of PR interval (p = .24) were not. In multivariable analysis, only post-TAVI early high-grade atrioventricular block remained associated with late high-grade atrioventricular blocks (Days 0-1: odds ratio [OR], 3.25; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.57-6.74; p = .001; Days 2-6: OR, 4.13; 95% CI, 2.06-8.31; p < .001), whereas other conventionally used predictors were not.

CONCLUSION

One-third of pacemaker-implanted patients do not experience late high-grade atrioventricular block. Our findings suggest that post-TAVI early high-grade atrioventricular block is the main factor associated with occurrence of late high-grade atrioventricular blocks.

Ambulatory Electrocardiogram Monitoring in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: JACC State-of-the-Art Review

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has changed the treatment of patients with severe aortic stenosis. However, the occurrence of conduction disturbances has not decreased significantly over time and remains the main drawback of the procedure. In addition, new-onset atrial fibrillation is the most frequent tachyarrhythmia during the hospitalization period and is associated with worse clinical outcomes. However, little is known regarding the incidence and clinical impact of arrhythmic events beyond the periprocedural TAVR period. Ambulatory electrocardiogram (AECG) monitoring has recently emerged as a tool to unravel the complex issue of arrhythmic disorders (bradyarrhythmias and tachyarrhythmias) before and after TAVR. To date, the preliminary results from the initial experience using AECG monitoring systems showed the safety, usefulness, and potential clinical implications of this diagnostic tool in TAVR recipients. This review provides an overview of the current status, clinical implications, and future perspectives of AECG monitoring in the TAVR setting.

Single-center experience of 105-minimalistc transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement and its outcome

INTRODUCTION

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) increases worldwide, and indications expand from high-risk aortic stenosis patients to low-risk aortic stenosis. Studies have shown that minimalistic TAVR done under conscious sedation is safe and effective. We report single-operator, the single-center outcome of 105 minimalist transfemoral, conscious sedation TAVR patients, analyzed retrospectively.

METHODS

All patients underwent TAVR in cardiac catheterization lab via percutaneous transfemoral, conscious sedation approach. A dedicated cardiac anesthetist team delivered the conscious sedation with a standard protocol described in the main text. The outcomes were analyzed as per VARC-2 criteria and compared with the latest low-risk TAVR trials.

RESULTS

A total of 105 patients underwent transcatheter aortic valve replacement between July 2016 to February 2020. The mean age of the population was 73 years, and the mean STS score was 3.99 ± 2.59. All patients underwent a percutaneous transfemoral approach. Self-expanding valve was used in 40% of cases and balloon-expandable valve in 60% (Sapien3™ in 31% and MyVal™ in 29%) of cases. One patient required conversion to surgical aortic valve replacement. The success rate was 99 percent. The outcomes were: all-cause mortality: 0.9%, stroke rate 1.9%, New pacemaker rate 5.7%, 87.6% had no paravalvular leak. The mild and moderate paravalvular leak was seen in 2.8% and 1.9%, respectively. The mean gradient decreased from 47.5 mmHg to 9 mmHg. The average ICU stay was 26.4 h, and the average hospital stay was 5.4 days. Our outcomes are comparable with the latest published low-risk trial.

CONCLUSION

Minimalist, conscious sedation, transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement when done following a standard protocol is safe and effective.

Survival relative to pacemaker status after transcatheter aortic valve implantation

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether a permanent pacemaker (PPM) in situ can enhance survival after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), in a predominantly inoperable or high risk cohort.

BACKGROUND

New conduction disturbances are the most frequent complication of TAVI, often necessitating PPM implantation before hospital discharge.

METHODS

We performed an observational cohort analysis of the UK TAVI registry (2007-2015). Primary and secondary endpoints were 30-day post-discharge all-cause mortality and long-term survival, respectively.

RESULTS

Of 8,651 procedures, 6,815 complete datasets were analyzed. A PPM at hospital discharge, irrespective of when implantation occurred (PPM 1.68% [22/1309] vs. no PPM 1.47% [81/5506], odds ratio [OR] 1.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.71-1.84; p = .58), or a PPM implanted peri- or post-TAVI only (PPM 1.44% [11/763] vs. no PPM 1.47% [81/5506], OR 0.98 [0.51-1.85]; p = .95) did not significantly reduce the primary endpoint. Patients with a PPM at discharge were older, male, had right bundle branch block at baseline, were more likely to have received a first-generation self-expandable prosthesis and had experienced more peri- and post-procedural complications including bailout valve-in-valve rescue, bleeding and acute kidney injury. A Cox proportional hazards model demonstrated significantly reduced long-term survival in all those with a PPM, irrespective of implantation timing (hazard ratio [HR] 1.14 [1.02-1.26]; p = .019) and those receiving a PPM only at the time of TAVI (HR 1.15 [1.02-1.31]; p = .032). The reasons underlying this observation warrant further investigation.

CONCLUSIONS

A PPM did not confer a survival advantage in the first 30 days after hospital discharge following TAVI.

Late onset complete heart block after transcatheter aortic valve replacement treated with permanent His-bundle pacing

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a rapidly growing procedure. Conduction disease post-TAVR is frequent and routinely monitored for periprocedurally. Permanent pacemaker placement is relatively common and usually associated with worse outcomes post-TAVR. We report a case of very late presenting complete heart block post-TAVR treated with His-bundle pacing. Our case underscores the need for larger studies to further evaluate the utility of long-term cardiac monitoring post-TAVR and outcomes of His-bundle pacing in this population.

Clinical Impact of Preexisting Right Bundle Branch Block after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Introduction

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is now the treatment of choice for patients with severe aortic stenosis regardless of their surgical risk. Right bundle branch block (RBBB) can be a predictor for development of significant atrioventricular (AV) block after TAVR, requiring permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI). However, data related to the risk of PPI requirement with preexisting RBBB is scarce. Hence, this systematic review and meta-analysis aims to assess clinical outcomes of patients undergoing TAVR with RBBB on preexisting electrocardiogram.

Methods

We performed a systematic literature review to identify randomized and nonrandomized clinical studies that reported any clinical impact of patients undergoing TAVR with preexisting RBBB. A total of eight databases including PubMed (Medline), Embase, Cochrane Library, ACP Journal Club, Scopus, DARE, and Ovid containing articles from January 2000 to May 2020 were analyzed.

Results

We identified and screened 224 potential eligible publications through the databases and found 14 relevant clinical trials for a total of 15,319 participants. There was an increased 30-day pacemaker implantation rate of 38.1% in the RBBB group compared to 11.4% in the no RBBB group with a risk ratio of 3.56 (RR 3.56 (95% CI 3.21–3.93, p < 0.01)). There was an increased 30-day all-cause mortality in the RBBB group of 9.5% compared with 6.3% in the no RBBB group with an odds ratio of 1.60 (OR 1.60 (95% CI 1.14–2.25, p < 0.01)).

Conclusion

This study indicates that patients with preexisting RBBB have higher incidence of PPI and all-cause mortality after TAVR compared with patients without RBBB. Further trials are needed to compare the clinical outcomes based on TAVR valve types and assess the benefit of PPI in patients with new-onset RBBB after TAVR.

The effect of P wave indices on new onset atrial fibrillation after trans-catheter aortic valve replacement

OBJECTIVES

Data is scarce regarding the relation between P wave indices and new onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF) after trans-catheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

AIMS

The present study aimed to find out certain characteristics of P wave that may predict NOAF after TAVR procedure.

METHOD

Patients with severe calcific aortic stenosis who had undergone TAVR procedure between 2013 and 2019 in two centers were investigated. P wave abnormalities that have been resumed to reflect impaired atrial conduction; partial and advanced inter atrial block (IAB), P-wave terminal force in lead V1, P wave dispersion, reduced amplitude of P- wave in lead I, P wave peak time in D2 and V1 were evaluated on pre- procedural 12 derivation surface electrocardiography (ECG). The relationship between these parameters and incidence of NOAF during index hospitalization was evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 227 consecutive patients (median age 79 [74-83]; 134 [59%] female) were included in the study. NOAF occurred in 46 (20.3%) patients. P wave duration, P wave dispersion, number of patients with partial and advanced IAB, left atrium diameter, STS score were higher in NOAF patients. Use of general anesthesia and history of prior open heart surgery were also more frequent in NOAF group. In multivariable logistic regression analysis; advanced IAB (OR 6.413 [2.555-16.095] p < 0.01), P wave dispersion (OR 3.544 [1.431-8.780] p = 0.006) and use of general anesthesia (OR 2.736 [1.225-6.109] p = 0.014) were independent predictors of NOAF.

CONCLUSION

Among P wave abnormalities evaluated on pre-procedural 12-derivation surface ECG, advanced IAB and P wave dispersion may predict NOAF after TAVR procedure.

Left-Atrial Appendage Thrombosis in Patients With Severe Aortic Stenosis Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

BACKGROUND

Data about the impact of left-atrial appendage thrombosis (LAAT) on early safety and mortality in patients undergoing transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TF-TAVI) are scarce. We aimed to investigate the prevalence and predictors of LAAT and the outcome associated with this condition in patients treated by TF-TAVI.

METHODS

Retrospective data analysis was derived from a prospective single-centre registry comparing patients with and without LAAT regarding early safety at 30 days, according to Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 (VARC-2) and 2-year mortality.

RESULTS

LAAT was found in 7.6% of the whole cohort (n = 2527) and in 16.6% in those patients with known pre-existing atrial fibrillation (AF cohort, n = 1099). Compared with controls, patients with LAAT were sicker, indicated by a higher Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) score and burden of comorbidities. Neither VARC-2-defined early safety at 30 days nor the rate of stroke was different between LAAT and controls in both the whole (early safety: 29.2% vs 24.2%, P = 0.123; stroke: 5.9% vs 4.7%, P = 0.495) and AF cohort (early safety: 29.1% vs 22.9%, P = 0.072; stroke: 5.6% vs 3.3%, P = 0.142). Evaluating the whole cohort in a univariate analysis, the 2-year mortality was significantly higher in LAAT compared with controls (hazard ratio, 1.41; 95% confidence interval, 1.07-1.86; P = 0.014). However, multivariate analysis of the whole cohort and the AF cohort revealed no association between LAAT and 2-year mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

LAAT was frequent in patients undergoing TF-TAVI- in particular, in patients with histories of AF-but it was not associated with an increase in periprocedural complications and did not predict 2-year mortality.

Syncope in Patients With Severe Aortic Stenosis: More Than Just an Obstruction Issue

BACKGROUND

Severe aortic stenosis (AoS) is considered a primary cause of syncope. However, other mechanisms may be present in these patients and accurate diagnosis can have important clinical implications. The aim of this study is to assess the different etiologies of syncope in patients with severe AoS and the impact on prognosis of attaining a certain or highly probable diagnosis for the syncope.

METHODS

Out of a cohort of 331 patients with AoS and syncope, 61 had severe AoS and were included in the study. Main cause of syncope and adverse cardiac events were assessed.

RESULTS

In 40 patients (65.6%), we reached a certain or highly probable diagnosis of the main cause of the syncope. AoS was considered the primary cause of the syncope in only 7 patients (17.5% of the patients with known etiology). Atrioventricular block (14 patients, 35.0%) and vasovagal syncope (6 patients, 15.0%) were the most frequently diagnosed causes. The presence of a known cause for syncope during the admission was not associated with a lower incidence of recurrence during follow-up (hazard ratio [HR] 0.69, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.20-2.40). Syncope of unknown etiology was independently associated with greater mortality during 1-year follow-up (HR 5.4, 95% CI 1.3-21.6) and 3-year follow-up (HR 3.5, 95% CI 1.2-10.3).

CONCLUSIONS

In a high proportion of patients with severe AoS admitted for syncope, the valvulopathy was not the main cause of the syncope. Syncope in two-thirds of this population was caused by either bradyarrhythmia or reflex causes. Syncope of unknown cause was associated with increased short- and medium-term mortality, independently from treatment of the valve disease. An exhaustive work-up should be conducted to determine the main cause for syncope.

Remote Ambulatory Cardiac Monitoring Before and After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Remote ambulatory cardiac monitoring (rACM) could identify high-grade atrioventricular block (AVB) before and after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Retrospective analysis of patients undergoing TAVR, with 14-day rACM before and after TAVR, was performed. Of 62 patients undergoing TAVR, 41 patients had rACM before TAVR. Three patients had asymptomatic AVB leading to planned pacemaker (PM) implant. After TAVR, 23 patients had rACM, with 1 patient requiring a PM implant for asymptomatic AVB. Five patients underwent unplanned PM after TAVR. Using rACM, almost half of PM implants in TAVR recipients were identified electively. High-grade AVB requiring PM was identified in nearly 10% of patients before TAVR.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation: how to decrease post-operative complications

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a therapeutic option widely used for the treatment of severe aortic stenosis in the elderly. Careful pre-procedural screening, operator experience, and technological innovations, accounted for a safe, reliable, and standardized procedure. To further decrease post-operative complications, few steps are important: careful planning of the procedure by the Heart Team, clinical and diagnostic evaluation including electrocardiogram, echography, and computed tomography of the heart and great vessels. This approach will allow a selection of ideal candidates for the procedure, the best vascular approach, the selection of patients candidates for early discharge, and last but not least, simplification of the TAVI procedure. Although the procedure is reaching the ‘simplicity’ of coronary interventions, it should always be kept in mind the possibility, albeit remote, that life-threatening complication could ensue, requiring the prompt intervention of the cardiovascular surgeon.

Trends and effect of atrial fibrillation on inpatient outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is common in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) but there is conflicting evidence on whether AF impacts outcomes after TAVR.

Methods

Hospitalizations of adults ≥50 years old who had undergone elective TAVR from 2012 to 2015 were included. Poisson regression was used to assess changes in in-hospital complications, average length of stay (LOS) after TAVR, and discharge disposition over time. Multivariable logistic, linear, and generalized logistic regression models, adjusting for patient and hospital characteristics, were used to estimate the effect of AF on inpatient outcomes.

Results

A total of 7,266 TAVR hospitalizations were included; AF was present in 44% of patients. Between 2012 and 2015, there was a significant decrease in the incidence of acute kidney injury, blood transfusion, average LOS, and inpatient mortality both for AF and non-AF patients. However, the incidences of vascular complications and major bleeding decreased only among non-AF patients. After adjustment, AF was associated with increased incidences of TIA/stroke (OR 1.36, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.85), acute kidney injury (OR 1.54, 95% CI: 1.33, 1.78), blood transfusion (OR 1.14, 95% CI: 1.00, 1.30), transfer to a skilled nursing facility (OR 1.38, 95% CI: 1.23, 1.55), and longer average LOS (CIE 1.30, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.54). AF was not associated with inpatient mortality (OR 1.09, 95% CI: 0.81, 1.48).

Conclusions

AF is prevalent among patients undergoing TAVR, and is associated with higher incidences of inpatient complications, discharge to a skilled nursing facility, and longer average LOS. While the incidence of many complications has declined in the past few years, continued efforts to further reduce complications in patients with AF is urgently required for expansion of TAVR to broader populations.

Surrogates for myocardial power and power efficiency in patients with aortic valve disease

We aimed to assess surrogate markers for left ventricular (LV) myocardial power and efficiency in patients with isolated aortic stenosis (AS) and combined stenosis/regurgitation (AS/AR). In AS (n = 59), AS/AR (n = 21) and controls (n = 14), surrogates for LV myocardial power and circulatory/external myocardial efficiency were obtained from cardiac MRI. Median surrogate LV myocardial power was increased in AS, 7.7 W/m² (interquartile range 6.0–10.2; p = 0.010) and AS/AR, 10.8 W/m² (8.9–13.4; p < 0.001) when compared to controls, 5.4 W/m² (4.2–6.5), and was lower in AS than AS/AR (p < 0.001). Surrogate circulatory efficiency was decreased in AS, 8.6% (6.8–11.1; p < 0.001) and AS/AR, 5.4% (4.1–6.2; p < 0.001) when compared to controls, 11.8% (9.8–16.9). Surrogate external myocardial efficiency was higher in AS, 15.2% (11.9–18.6) than in AS/AR, 12.2% (10.1–14.2; p = 0.031) and was significantly lower compared to controls, 12.2% (10.7–18.1) in patients with reduced ejection fraction (EF), 9.8% (8.1–11.7; p = 0.025). In 16% of all cases, left ventricular mass/volume indices and EF were within normal ranges, wheras surrogate LV myocardial power was elevated and patients were symptomatic. Although influenced by pressure/volume load, the myocardium is additionally affected by remodelling processes. Surrogates for circulatory efficiency and LV myocardial power gradually reflect alterations in patients with AS and AS/AR, even when surrogate external myocardial efficiency, EF, mass and volume indices still remain compensated.

Impact of Pre-Existing and New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation on Outcomes After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to evaluate impact of new-onset and pre-existing atrial fibrillation (AF) on transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) long-term outcomes compared with patients without AF.

BACKGROUND

Pre-existing and new-onset AF in patients undergoing TAVR are associated with poor outcomes.

METHODS

The study identified 72,660 patients ≥65 years of age who underwent nonapical TAVR between 2014 and 2016 using Medicare inpatient claims. History of AF was defined by diagnoses on claims during the 3 years preceding the TAVR, and new-onset AF was defined as occurrence of AF during the TAVR admission or within 30 days after TAVR in a patient without prior history of AF. Outcomes included all-cause mortality, and readmission for bleeding, stroke, and heart failure (HF).

RESULTS

Overall, 40.7% had pre-existing AF (n = 29,563) and 6.8% experienced new-onset AF (n = 2,948) after TAVR. Mean age was 81.3, 82.4, and 83.8 years in patients with no AF, pre-existing, and new-onset AF, respectively. Pre-existing AF patients had the highest burden of comorbidities. After follow-up of 73,732 person-years, mortality was higher with new-onset AF compared with pre-existing and no AF (29.7, 22.6, and 12.8 per 100 person-years, respectively; p < 0.001). After adjusting for patient characteristics and hospital TAVR volume, new-onset AF remained associated with higher mortality compared with no AF (adjusted hazard ratio: 2.068, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.92 to 2.20; p < 0.01) and pre-existing AF (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.35; 95% CI: 1.26 to 1.45; p < 0.01). In competing risk analysis, new-onset AF was associated with higher risk of bleeding (subdistribution hazard ratio [sHR]: 1.66; 95% CI: 1.48 to 1.86; p < 0.01), stroke (sHR: 1.92; 95% CI: 1.63 to 2.26; p < 0.01), and HF (sHR: 1.98; 95% CI: 1.81 to 2.16; p < 0.01) compared with pre-existing AF.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients undergoing TAVR, new-onset AF is associated with increased risk of mortality and bleeding, stroke, and HF hospitalizations compared with pre-existing AF or no AF.

Clinical and Echocardiographic Outcomes Following Permanent Pacemaker Implantation After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement has become the procedure of choice for inoperable, high-risk, and many intermediate-risk patients with aortic stenosis. Conduction abnormalities are a common finding after transcatheter aortic valve replacement and often result in permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation. Data pertaining to the clinical impact of PPM implantation are controversial. We used meta-analysis techniques to summarize the effect of PPM implantation on clinical and echocardiographic outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Data were summarized as Mantel-Haenszel relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for dichotomous variables and as standardized mean difference and 95% CI for continuous variables We used the Higgins I² statistic to evaluate heterogeneity. We found that patients with and without PPM have similar all-cause mortality (RR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.70-1.03), cardiovascular mortality (RR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.59-1.18), myocardial infarction (RR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.20-1.11), and stroke (RR, 1.26; 95% CI, 0.70-2.26) at 30 days. The groups were also comparable in all-cause mortality (RR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.92-1.16), cardiovascular mortality (RR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.39-1.24), myocardial infarction (RR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.30-1.13), and stroke (RR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.47-1.04) at 1 year. We observed that the improvement in left ventricular ejection fraction was significantly greater in the patients without PPM (standardized mean difference, 0.22; 95% CI, 0.12-0.32).

CONCLUSIONS

PPM implantation is not associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, stroke, or myocardial infarction both at short- and long-term follow-up. However, PPM is associated with impaired left ventricular ejection fraction recovery post-transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

Atrial fibrillation in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation: epidemiology, timing, predictors, and outcome

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia in patients with aortic stenosis. When these patients are treated medically or by surgical aortic valve replacement, AF is associated with increased risk of adverse events including death. Growing evidence suggests a significant impact of AF on outcomes also in patients with aortic valve stenosis undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Conversely, limited evidence is available regarding the optimal management of this condition. This review aims to summarize prevalence, pathophysiology, prognosis, and treatment of AF in patients undergoing TAVI.