Current guidelines and expert consensus recommend different time thresholds of temporary pacemaker (TM) indwelling in patients with conduction block after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Accordingly, this lack of clinical evidence and effective strategies has resulted in extensive variations in permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation patterns, potentially leading to over-early PPM implantation. The use of a temporary permanent pacemaker (TPPM), which involves an active fixation pacing lead and an external pulse generator secured to the skin surface, may be effective and safe in these patients. TPPM may improve postoperative mobility and facilitate early discharge, while providing prolonged and stable pacing for the recovery of conduction block, thereby reducing unnecessary PPM implantation.

The RECOVER trial is a prospective, multicenter, open-label, randomized controlled study comparing TPPM vs TM in patients with conduction block after TAVR. The trial will enroll 160 subjects across 13 sites in China. Inclusion criteria include patients with persistent third-degree atrioventricular block (AVB), second-degree AVB, first-degree AVB with symptoms (PR interval >300 ms), alternating bundle branch block or bifascicular block with syncope/blackness related symptoms occurred during TAVR procedure or within 1 month after TAVR. Enrolled patients will be randomized 1:1 to the TPPM group for a 1-month bridge or the TM group for conventional 24 to 48 hours pacing. The primary effectiveness endpoint is the rate of PPM implantation at 6 months after the occurrence of AVB. Secondary effectiveness endpoint is the rate of PPM implantation at 1 month after the occurrence of AVB. Safety endpoints include all-cause mortality and TPPM/TM/PPM procedure-related complications during the 6-month follow-up. Key data collected will include sociodemographic information, medical history, electrocardiograph, HOLTER, echocardiography, contrast-enhanced cardiac CT, details of procedures and pacemaker interrogation. Indication for PPM implantation will be adjudicated by an independent pacing electrophysiologist committee.

The RECOVER trial will evaluate whether TPPM is superior to conventional TM in reducing the rate of PPM implantation in patients with conduction block after TAVR, with a buffer period to distinguish whether conduction block is reversible or persistent.

The trial is still enrolling participants (with 14 enrolled as of January 1, 2025).

Randomized controlled trial to compare temporary permanent pacemaker vs temporary pacemaker in patients with conduction block after transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2400087536. Registered at July 30, 2024. https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=227719.

Guidelines recommend transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) or surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) for patients of age > 65 years. The relative risks and benefits of TAVR vs. SAVR in low and intermediate surgical risk remain incompletely described.

A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Central databases identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing clinical outcomes of TAVR vs. SAVR in low and intermediate surgical risk.

Ten RCTs (9239 patients, TAVR 50.8 %) were included. TAVR was associated with lower rates of all-cause death or stroke at 30-day (rate ratio [RR] 0.70; 95%CI 0.55-0.89; p = 0.003; I2 = 26 %) and 1-year (RR 0.77; 95%CI 0.60-0.98; p = 0.033; I2 = 54 %) follow-up. Bleeding complications, new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF), acute kidney injury (AKI), and severe patient-prosthesis mismatch (PPM) were lower with TAVR at 30 days and 1-year. Permanent pacemaker implantation, aortic valve reintervention, major vascular complications, and paravalvular leak (PVL) were significantly higher with TAVR at 30-day and 1-year follow-ups. Rates of all-cause death, stroke, MI, endocarditis, and rehospitalization were comparable between the groups at 30-day and 1-year follow-up.

In patients with severe AS and low to intermediate surgical risk, TAVR is associated with reduced rates of all-cause death or stroke, bleeding, new-onset AF, AKI, and severe PPM compared to SAVR. However, despite these short-term benefits, higher rates of permanent pacemaker implantation, PVL, and reintervention raise significant concerns about the long-term safety of TAVR, particularly for younger, lower-risk patients.

A new-onset conduction disturbance is a major concern in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) but can resolve over time. This study aimed to evaluate the recovery in conduction disturbances post-TAVR and its association with clinical outcomes.

This retrospective study included 780 TAVR patients at St. Marianna University between January 2016 and March 2023. Patients were stratified into four groups based on conduction status at six months post-TAVR: no conduction disturbance, recovered conduction disturbance [defined as a post-procedural pacemaker implantation with cumulative right ventricular pacing <40 % or complete left bundle branch block (CLBBB) at discharge but not at six months], permanent conduction disturbance (defined as pacemaker implantation with cumulative right ventricular pacing ≥40 % or CLBBB at both discharge and six months), and preprocedural conduction disturbance. The primary outcomes were all-cause mortality and heart failure hospitalization. The secondary outcome was the change in cardiac damage from pre-procedure to one-year post-TAVR.

Of 780 patients, 220 (28 %) had new-onset CLBBB or required a pacemaker implantation at discharge. Among these, 99 (45 %) had permanent conduction disturbances at six months. Over a median follow-up of 788 days, both permanent and preprocedural conduction disturbances were significantly associated with a higher incidence of heart failure hospitalization [hazard ratio (HR) 3.63; 95 % confidence interval (CI): 2.04-6.47, p < 0.01 and HR 2.50; 95 % CI: 1.27-4.90, p < 0.01), although no difference in all-cause mortality was observed. In contrast, the prognosis of patients with recovered conduction disturbance was comparable with those with no conduction disturbance. Patients with permanent and preprocedural conduction disturbances showed significant worsening cardiac damage.

Permanent and preprocedural conduction disturbances after TAVR were associated with increased heart failure hospitalizations, while the prognostic impact of recovered conduction disturbance may be limited.

Background: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has become the preferred treatment for severe aortic stenosis in high- and intermediate-risk patients, with expanding indications for lower-risk populations. However, post-procedural complications, such as stroke, conduction disturbances, and heart failure readmissions, remain concerns. The aim of our study is to analyze the national trends in TAVR procedures, in-hospital outcomes, major readmission causes, and the association of risk factors for readmissions following TAVR. Methods: We analyzed NIS data (2018-2022) to assess TAVR utilization trends, patient demographics, and in-hospital outcomes. The NRD (2021-2022) was used to evaluate 60-day readmission rates for stroke, complete heart block, and heart failure. Multivariate regression models were employed to identify risk factors having significant association with major readmission causes. Results: TAVR utilization increased from 10,788 cases in 2018 to 17,784 in 2022, with a concurrent decrease in in-hospital mortality (1.33% to 0.90%) and length of stay (3.88 to 2.97 days). Of 123,376 TAVR index admissions in 2021, 28,654 patients had 66,100 readmission events (53.57%) in the 60 days following discharge. Heart failure (17,566 cases, 26.57% of readmissions) was the most common readmission cause, followed by complete heart block (1760 cases, 2.66% of readmissions) and stroke (284 cases, 0.42% of readmissions). Predictors of post-TAVR stroke included uncontrolled hypertension (OR 2.29, p < 0.001) and chronic heart failure (OR 2.73, p < 0.001). Left bundle branch block (LBBB) was strongly associated with complete heart block (OR 12.89, p < 0.001) and heart failure readmissions (OR 7.65, p < 0.001). Conclusions: TAVR utilization has increased with improving perioperative outcomes, but post-TAVR readmissions remain significant, particularly for heart failure, stroke, and conduction disturbances. Pre-procedural uncontrolled hypertension, hyperlipidemia, congestive heart failure, and atrial fibrillation were risk factors with significant association with stroke in the 60 days following TAVR. The presence of documented pre-procedural LBB, RBB, as well as BFB were risk factors with significant association with complete heart block following TAVR placements. Pre-procedural LBB, RBB, BFB, and atrial fibrillation were risk factors having significant association with heart failure readmissions in the 60 days following TAVR.

Postoperative temperature dysregulation affects the length of hospital stay and prognosis. This study evaluated the factors that influence the occurrence of fever in patients after aortic valve replacement surgery.

Eighty-seven consecutive patients who underwent aortic valve replacement surgery were included. Patients' age, sex and body mass index; presence of diabetes mellitus; operation time; blood loss; blood transfusion volume; preoperative and postoperative laboratory findings; presence or absence of oral function management; and fever >38°C were retrospectively analysed through univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses.

Among the variables, only diabetes mellitus status was significantly associated with fever ⩾38°C. Postoperatively, patients with diabetes mellitus were significantly less likely to develop fever above 38°C and a fever rising to 38°C.

This study shows that the presence of comorbid diabetes mellitus decreases the frequency of developing fever >38°C after aortic valve replacement surgery.

Angulation of virtual basal ring (VBR), also known as aortic annulus, in relation to sino-tubular junction (STJ) may lead to greater exposure of implanted stent to the conduction system, consequently increasing the risk of left bundle branch block (LBBB).

We sough to measure the VBR-STJ angle and explore its impact on the development of LBBB post-TAVR.

Patients undergoing TAVR using the Sapiens 3 valve between 2016 and 2021, without pre-TAVR conduction anomalies were included. The angle between the VBR and the ascending aorta was measured as the angle between the VBR plane and the plane of the STJ on cardiac CT, along with the annulus dimensions. TAVR implantation depth was measured on fluoroscopy images.

A total of 1204 patients were included, with 145 having new-onset LBBB. The VBR-STJ angle was significantly greater in the new-onset LBBB group (7.3 ± 4.7 vs. 5.9 ± 4.6, p = 0.002), and the difference in implantation depth between the levels of right and none coronary cusp (RCC and NCC) was significantly correlated with the VBR-STJ angle (r = 0.3, p = 0.03). This angle was further associated with new-onset LBBB after adjustment to patient and procedural characteristics (OR 1.08 CI: [1.04, 1.13], p < 0.001).

Patients developing LBBB have larger VBR-STJ angle which was associated with greater depth of implantation of the TAVR valve below the RCC compared to the NCC. Precise understanding of the aortic root anatomy can help to predict onset of LBBB which in turn can inform decision-making regarding optimal way of treating aortic stenosis and may improve procedure planning.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) has revolutionized the treatment of severe aortic stenosis. Although its clinical efficacy is well established, the development of new-onset left bundle branch block (LBBB) following TAVI remains a frequent and concerning complication. This study aims to develop pre-implantation predictive models for new-onset LBBB after TAVI using both conventional machine learning (ML) algorithms and Large Language Models (LLMs).

Of the 1113 patients who underwent TAVI over a 15-year period, 469 were included after excluding those with preexisting LBBB, pacing rhythm, or missing relevant data. Pre-procedural clinical parameters - such as valve type, valve size, patient demographics, and comorbidities - were analyzed. The dataset was split into training and testing sets. Several ML algorithms were employed, and performance was evaluated using accuracy, precision, and F1 score. Additionally, LLMs (GPT-3.5 and GPT-4) were assessed using Few-Shot and Chain of Thought (CoT) prompting.

New-onset persistent LBBB occurred in 15.29% of patients. Among ML models, XGBoost performed best. GPT-4 with CoT prompting demonstrated superior predictive performance compared to both conventional ML and GPT-3.5.

The current study establishes a predictive model leveraging pre-implantation parameters to anticipate the occurrence of new-onset left bundle branch block (LBBB) post-Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI).

The management of severe symptomatic aortic stenosis has been revolutionized by transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), offering a minimally invasive alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). However, the comparative safety and efficacy of these interventions remain subjects of ongoing investigation.

To compare the clinical outcomes and safety of TAVR vs SAVR in patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis.

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing TAVR and SAVR were identified from databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science up to May 31, 2024. Data were extracted on clinical outcomes, including mortality, procedural complications, and post-procedure adverse events. Risk ratios (RRs) with 95%CIs were calculated using a random-effects model.

A total of 10 RCTs were included. TAVR demonstrated a significantly lower risk of acute kidney injury (RR: 0.33; 95%CI: 0.25-0.44), major bleeding (RR: 0.37; 95%CI: 0.30-0.46), and new-onset atrial fibrillation (RR: 0.44; 95%CI: 0.34-0.57) compared to SAVR. However, TAVR was associated with higher risks of new permanent pacemaker implantation (RR: 3.49; 95%CI: 2.77-4.39), major vascular complications (RR: 2.47; 95%CI: 1.91-3.21), and paravalvular leaks (RR: 4.15; 95%CI: 3.14-5.48). Mortality at 30 days was comparable (RR: 0.95; 95%CI: 0.78-1.15), but long-term mortality was slightly higher with TAVR in some analyses (RR: 1.23; 95%CI: 1.01-1.49). Rates of stroke (RR: 0.97; 95%CI: 0.81-1.17) and myocardial infarction (RR: 0.91; 95%CI: 0.67-1.24) were similar between the groups.

TAVR offers a less invasive option with significant benefits in reducing acute kidney injury, major bleeding, and new-onset atrial fibrillation, making it particularly advantageous for high-risk surgical candidates. However, higher risks of permanent pacemaker implantation, vascular complications, and paravalvular leaks highlight the need for individualized patient selection and shared decision-making to optimize outcomes.

BBR-VT is a unique macro-re-entrant VT that involves the right bundle, left bundle, and ventricular septum as part of the circuit. It should be in the differential diagnosis of patients undergoing TAVI procedure. This case demonstrates that some instances of post-TAVI BBRT may be transient and resolve without the need for permanent bundle branch ablation, which would otherwise necessitate conduction system pacing or cardiac resynchronization therapy. BBRT should be keep in mind patients undergoing TAVI procedures, and this case stress its transient apperance.

Transcatheter valve interventions have transformed the outcomes of patients with valvular heart disease who are at high risk for surgery. With the increasing utilisation and expansion of transcatheter valve interventions, it is of utmost importance to be familiar with their potential complications and their subsequent management, especially given the relative infrequency of many of these issues in contemporary practice. Herein, we present a state-of-the-art review article focusing on the complications, their prevention, and treatment following transcatheter aortic valve implantation, mitral transcatheter edge-to-edge repair, and transcatheter mitral valve replacement.

The aortic root compresses the heart in elderly patients, potentially influencing the conduction system and causing atrial tachyarrhythmias. However, actual anatomic alterations in the right side of the heart because of aortic root compression have not yet been fully evaluated.

This study aimed to elucidate the alterations in the tricuspid valve annulus (TVA) caused by aortic root compression using a 3-dimensional endoscopic view of the heart constructed by photon-counting detector computed tomography, an emerging medical technology.

We analyzed 147 consecutive patients who underwent photon-counting detector computed tomography at our institute after excluding those with diseases that directly influenced the right side of the heart.

Aortic root compression caused significant TVA deformation. We defined severe TVA compression as the length of the TVA compressed by the aortic root ≥80% of the major axis of the TVA. Severe compression was more prevalent in elderly patients (age ≥75 years [44%]; P < .01). The distance between the membranous septum and ostium of the coronary sinus was shortened, whereas the cavotricuspid isthmus was elongated in older patients. The regression analysis identified aging as a significant contributor to TVA compression. The short minor and long major axes of the TVA, incidence of atrial tachyarrhythmias (74% vs 45%; P < .01), and atrioventricular conduction disturbances (35% vs 15%; P < .01) were more frequently observed in patients with severe compression.

Aortic root compression deforms the TVA and alters the anatomic relationship between the atrioventricular conduction system and the cavotricuspid isthmus. Therefore, aortic root compression may contribute to the occurrence of atrial tachyarrhythmias and conduction disturbances in older patients.

Because of the potential need for permanent pacemaker implantation, patients are frequently monitored for days after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), particularly when using self-expanding valves. We sought to determine whether the appearance and management of conduction disturbances after TAVI can be improved by combining the cusp overlap projection (COP) and a rapid atrial pacing (RAP) protocol to detect the need for pacemaker implantation.

We consecutively studied a total of 273 patients who underwent TAVI with self-expanding valves from 2018 through 2022 (134 undergoing standard implantations and 139 COP + RAP). Assessment included the 90-day follow-up.

Complete heart block was reported in 25.4% and 14.4% in the standard-of-care and COP + RAP group, with a marked decrease in transient atrioventricular block (12.8% vs 2.9%, respectively; P = .007). The absence of the Wenckebach phenomenon during RAP had a negative predictive value of 97% (95%CI, 91-99) for pacemaker implantation at the follow-up, which significantly decreased the need for 24-hour temporary pacemaker monitoring in the COP + RAP group (91.8% vs 28.1%; P < .0001) and the median [IQR] length of stay (5.0 [4-8] days vs 2.0 [1-4] days; P < .0001). At the 90-day follow-up, COP + RAP reduced pacemaker implantation (OR, 0.48; 95%CI, 0.24-0.92; P = .031), as well as the risk of infection-related readmissions significantly (OR, 0.35; 95%CI, 0.12-0.89; P = .036).

The combination of COP + RAP during self-expanding TAVI improves postoperative screening for conduction disturbances, thus reducing the need for cardiac rhythm monitoring, and the length stay. The COP + RAP strategy improves the short-term clinical outcomes of self-expanding TAVI due to fewer infection-related readmissions.

Transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve Replacement (TAVR) has become the standard therapy for patients with severe aortic stenosis in patients over 75 years old in Europe or 65 years old in the United States, regardless of the surgical risk. Furthermore, iterations of existing transcatheter aortic valves (TAVs), as well as devices with novel concepts, have provided substantial improvements with respect to the limitations of previous-generation devices. Hence, treatment of a broader spectrum of patients has become feasible, and a sophisticated selection of the appropriate TAV tailored to patients' anatomy and comorbidities is now possible. Anatomy, patient characteristics, and operator experience must all inform proper device selection. This review describes the features and performance of the current generation of TAVs with the aim of providing a practical approach for clinicians when selecting the appropriate TAV for a specific patient.

Periprocedural electrophysiological (EP) testing may be useful to predict high degree atrioventricular block (HAVB) risk in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

To determine whether pre- and immediate post-TAVR ECG and HV interval findings are predictive of HAVB.

Consecutive TAVR patients without prior pacemaker (PM) implantation underwent ECG and standardized HV interval measurements pre- and post-TAVR using the quadripolar catheter for rapid pacing. The primary outcome was HAVB >24 h after TAVR or ventricular pacing need RESULTS: Out of 97 included patients, 8 experienced the primary outcome (7 with HAVB and 1 with PM need). On univariate analysis, pre- and post-TAVR PR, post-TAVR HV, and Delta-HV intervals were predictors of the primary outcome. A Delta-HV interval ≥18 ms predicted HAVB with sensitivity = 50% and specificity = 90% (AUC = 0.708, PPV = 31%), while an HV interval ≥60 ms after TAVR had sensitivity = 63% and specificity = 79% (AUC = 0.681, PPV = 21%). None of the patients with a PR interval ≤180 ms post-TAVR experienced the primary outcome. Among patients with new-onset LBBB, an HV interval post-TAVR >65 ms was the only predictor of HAVB (AUC = 0.776, PPV = 33%, and NPV = 97%).

The yield of periprocedural EP assessment during TAVR is limited considering that about half of the at-risk patients fail to be identified. However, early periprocedural risk stratification may be more useful in the subset of patients with new-onset LBBB. Among ECG findings, a post-TAVR PR interval ≤180 ms identifies a subgroup at very low risk, independently of QRS interval and morphology.

Conduction disturbances have uncertain implications for long-term left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). We aimed to examine LVEF changes in patients up to two years post-TAVR.

We examined patients who underwent TAVR between 2012 and 2020 and underwent echocardiography follow-up. Patients were categorized into four groups: 1) Those without a permanent pacemaker (PPM) or left bundle branch block (LBBB) pre- or post-TAVR; 2) Patients with pre- and post-TAVR LBBB; 3) Individuals with preexisting PPM; and 4) Patients requiring new PPM after TAVR. LVEF was assessed at the outset of TAVR, at 30 days, 1-year, and 2-years post-TAVR.

The study included 730 patients: 421 (57.6 %) without conduction abnormalities, 151 (20.7 %) with post-TAVR LBBB (48 pre-existing, 103 new-onset), 63 (8.6 %) with pre-existing PPM, and 95 (13.1 %) requiring new PPM. At discharge, patients without conduction abnormalities exhibited the highest LVEF (57.4 ± 11.5 %), whereas those with pre-existing PPM had the lowest (48.1 ± 15.5 %). Over two years, LVEF remained constant in patients without conduction issues and in those with pre-existing PPM. However, patients with new LBBB experienced a 6.3 % decrease in LVEF, and those requiring new PPM showed a 4.1 % reduction.

New conduction abnormalities, such as LBBB or the need for PPM, induce a decline in LVEF post-TAVR. It is imperative to focus on the long-term monitoring of left ventricular function in patients experiencing new conduction disturbances post-TAVR.

Arrhythmic burden after discharge in patients with new-onset persistent left bundle branch block (NOP-LBBB) following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) with Evolut devices remains largely unknown. The aim of this study is to assess the incidence and type of arrhythmias at 2-year follow-up in patients with NOP-LBBB post-TAVR.

This is a prospective multicentre study including 88 patients with LBBB persisting for ≥3 days post-implantation. Before discharge, an implantable loop recorder (REVEAL XT/LINQ) was implanted; patients had continuous monitoring for 2 years. Arrhythmic events were adjudicated in a central core lab. Of the arrhythmic events, 411 were detected in 58 patients [65.9%; 2 (1-4) events per patient]. Symptoms were reported in 12/58 (20.7%), and therapy was changed in 25/58 (43.1%). There were 101 bradyarrhythmic events in 33 patients [35 high-grade atrioventricular block (HAVB) and 66 severe bradycardia]. The HAVB incidence was higher in the early (4-week) phase and remained stable over time, whereas severe bradycardia increased after 1 year. Permanent pacemaker was required in 11 (12.5%) patients (6.8% and 5.7% in the first and second year, respectively). There were 310 tachyarrhythmic events in 29 patients (120 AF/AFL, 111 AT, 72 SVT, 6 NSVT, and 1 VT); its incidence decreased throughout the 2 years. New AF/AFL episodes occurred in 20/69 patients [29%; symptomatic in 2/20 (10%)].

Patients with NOP-LBBB post-TAVR with Evolut devices exhibited a high burden of late arrhythmias, with events occurring in two-thirds of patients and leading to treatment changes in about half of them. These data should inform future studies on cardiac monitoring devices for follow-up and treatment optimization in this challenging population.

The impact of QRS duration on postoperative LBBB and its implications for the prognosis of patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) remained uncertain. This study enrolled consecutive patients who underwent TAVR with self-expanding prostheses in our department from September 2017 to January 2021. Based on the pro-discharge electrocardiogram, patients were categorized into 3 groups: Group-NCD (no conduction disorder), Group-sLBBB (LBBB, QRS ≥ 150 ms), and Group-mLBBB (LBBB, QRS < 150 ms). Basic characteristics were compared among these groups. Furthermore, differences in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), survival rates, and clinical events were assessed at baseline, discharge, and during a one-year follow-up period. A total of 56 patients were included in the study. With 17 (30.36%) experiencing new-onset LBBB, of which eleven had a QRS duration ≥ 150 ms. Group-sLBBB exhibited a longer left ventricular end-diastolic diameter at baseline. At a one-year follow-up, the LVEF improved in Group-NCD, but not in the LBBB groups. At discharge, the LVEF of Group-sLBBB was lower than that of Group-NCD (52.82 ± 11.48 vs 61.48 ± 10.10, P = .036) and remained lower at follow-up (57.10 ± 9.49 vs 65.85 ± 7.58, P = .011). Additionally, the LVEF of Group-sLBBB was lower than that of Group-mLBBB at discharge (52.82 ± 11.48 vs 63.17 ± 4.31, P = .018). However, there were no significant differences in survival and event-free survival among the groups. The study revealed a notable occurrence of new-onset LBBB following TAVR, with a majority of cases exhibiting a significantly prolonged QRS duration (≥150 ms). While the presence of LBBB did not impact one-year survival or clinical events, it did exert adverse effects on LVEF. Notably, when QRS duration was markedly prolonged, these adverse effects manifested earlier and were more pronounced.

A case of an elderly patient with severe aortic insufficiency who carried high risks for surgical valve replacement. After a detailed preoperative evaluation, the patient successfully received transapical transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Postoperatively, complete left bundle branch block developed, resulting in impaired left ventricular function. Despite guideline-directed medical therapy for heart failure, cardiac function showed no significant recovery. At 4.5 months post-surgery, left bundle branch pacing was performed, leading to a marked improvement in cardiac function.

Since TAVR was approved for lower-risk aortic stenosis (AS) patients, managing post-implantation conduction disturbances has become crucial, especially with self-expanding heart valves (SEV). This study aims to identify risk factors for conduction disturbances in such patients using a specific fluoroscopic cusp overlap (COL) technique.

This retrospective study analyzed AS patients who underwent TAVR with SEV from 2019 to 2022, excluding those needing pacemakers or valve-in-valve procedures. Patients were grouped by conventional (CON) and COL techniques, with outcomes monitored using Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC)-2 criteria.

In this cohort study of 114 patients, 17 were excluded due to pre-existing pacemakers. Forty-seven received SEVs using COL, and 50 with CON techniques. The COL group showed a significant reduction in new LBBB (27.7% vs. 46%, p = 0.006) and PPI rates (4.3% vs. 18%, p = 0.033) compared to the CON group. Deeper implantation depth below the non-coronary cusp (NCC) and left coronary cusp (LCC) was linked to an increased risk of conduction disturbances. Multivariate analysis identified smaller left ventricular outflow tract diameter, shorter membranous septum length, and greater pre-releasing implantation depth below the LCC as predictors of future PPI risk.

The use of the COL technique significantly reduces the risk of newly developed conduction disturbances after SEV TAVR. Keeping SEV implantation depth within 1 mm of the membranous septum length and maintaining an implantation depth of <6 mm below the LCC before final release further minimizes the risk of PPI.

New-onset persistent left bundle branch block (NOP-LBBB) at discharge after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is frequent, but its association with death and hospitalization for heart failure (HHF) remains unclear.

We aimed to assess the association of LBBB persistence or resolution after discharge and of permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation before discharge with these outcomes.

We analyzed consecutive patients undergoing TAVR at Nancy University Hospital from 2009 to 2021 with NOP-LBBB at discharge and available 1-year follow-up. We assessed the association of LBBB persistence (LBBB+) or resolution (LBBB-) at 3 months and in-hospital PPM implantation (PPM+) or absence (PPM-) with the 1-year risk of the composite outcome of mortality or HHF.

Of 1646 TAVR patients, 287 (17.4%) had NOP-LBBB, with complete follow-up data available for 234 patients. Of them, 73 patients (31.2%) required in-hospital PPM implantation, 142 patients (60.7%) experienced LBBB persistence at 3-month follow-up, and 45 (19.2%) had both. The 1-year mortality or HHF rate was 6.3% (PPM-/LBBB-), 10.7% (PPM+/LBBB-), 20.6% (PPM-/LBBB+), and 22.2% (PPM+/LBBB+). LBBB persistence was significantly associated with the composite outcome irrespective of PPM implantation (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] compared with PPM-/LBBB-: aHR for PPM-/LBBB+, 4.91 [1.64-14.64; P = .004]; aHR for PPM+/LBBB+, 4.58 [1.43-14.68; P = .010]), whereas PPM implantation with LBBB- was not (P = .29). This association was mainly driven by HHF (aHR for PPM-/LBBB+, 8.36 [1.90-36.83; P = .005]; aHR for PPM+/LBBB+, 8.36 [1.80-38.89; P = .007]).

The persistence of LBBB beyond discharge, rather than in-hospital PPM implantation, was associated with a higher risk of 1-year mortality or HHF in patients with NOP-LBBB at discharge after TAVR. Assessing postdischarge LBBB persistence may improve prognostic accuracy.

Background/Objectives: For transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) therapy, a catheter-guided crimped valve is deployed into the aortic root. Valve types such as Edwards balloon-expandable valves and Medtronic self-expandable valves come in different sizes and are chosen based on patient-specific aortic anatomy, including aortic root diameter measurement. Complications may arise due to variations in anatomical characteristics and the implantation procedure, making pre-implantation assessment important for predicting complications. Methods: Computational modeling, particularly finite element analysis (FEA), has become popular for assessing wall stresses and deformations in TAVI. In this study, a finite element model including the aorta, native leaflets, and TAVI device was used to simulate procedures and assess patient-specific wall stresses and deformations. Results: Using the Medtronic Evolut R valve, we simulated TAVI for 14 patients to analyze the effects of geometrical variations on structural stresses. Virtual TAVIs with different valve sizes were also simulated to study the influence of TAV size on stresses. Our results show that variations in aortic wall geometries and TAV sizes significantly influence wall stresses and deformations. Conclusions: Our study is one of the first comprehensive FEA investigations of aortic geometrical variations and valve sizes on post-TAVI stresses, demonstrating the non-linear relationship between aortic dimensions, TAV sizes, and wall stresses.

 We evaluated and compared early postprocedural and midterm incidence and evolution of atrioventricular and intraventricular conduction disorders following rapid deployment aortic valve replacement (RDAVR) and conventional aortic valve replacement (AVR).

 One hundred and forty-seven patients who underwent isolated rapid deployment AVR between 2017 and 2021 as well as 128 patients after conventional biological AVR in the same period were included in this study. ECGs recorded at baseline, discharge, and 12 months were retrospectively analyzed. Intrinsic rhythm, PQ interval, QRS duration, and atrioventricular and intraventricular conduction were evaluated and compared between both groups.

 Patients in both groups had comparable Society of Thoracic surgeons risc (STS) scores (2.9 ± 1.6 vs. 3.1 ± 2.2, p = 0.32) and comparable baseline characteristics. The mean age was 73.4 ± 5.7 years in the RDAVR group and 74.2 ± 5.9 years in the AVR group, respectively. At baseline, the mean QRS width was 95.7 ± 25.5 ms in the RDAVR group, and 97.3 ± 23.5 ms in the AVR group, respectively (p = 0.590). At discharge, the mean QRS width in the RDAVR group was significantly increased with 117.4 ± 28.6 ms and a mean ΔQRS width of 21.7 ± 26.3 ms (p < 0.001) compared with baseline. No significant changes in QRS width were found in the AVR group with a mean value of 101.2 ± 24.1 ms and a mean ΔQRS width of 3.9 ± 23.9 ms at discharge (p = 0.193). The left bundle branch block (LBBB) was increased in the RDAVR group after 12 months (19.3% vs. 5.1%, p < 0.001). Permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) rates were significantly higher in the RDAVR group after 12 months (hazard ratio (HR): 4.68; 95% CI: 2.23-7.43, p < 0.001). Mortality did not differ between both groups after 12 months (HR: 1.09; 95% CI: 0.46-1.83, p = 0.835) CONCLUSION:  Patients after RDAVR showed significantly higher rates of LBBB and PPI after 12 months. However, higher mortality was not observed in the RDAVR group.

The initial outcomes of transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients with left ventricular outflow tract calcification are poor. Furthermore, balloon-expandable transcatheter aortic valve replacement is associated with an increased risk of annular rupture, and self-expandable transcatheter aortic valve replacement is associated with worse post-operative residual paravalvular leakage grades. Therefore, developing an optimal method for transcatheter aortic valve replacement for patients with left ventricular outflow tract calcification is desirable.

We present two cases of successful balloon-expandable transcatheter aortic valve replacement, wherein the transcatheter heart valve was implanted above the left ventricular outflow tract calcification to avoid annular rupture and paravalvular leakage, and one case each of balloon-expandable and self-expandable transcatheter aortic valve replacements, wherein the transcatheter heart valve was implanted at a normal height. Although annular rupture did not occur in any of the cases, more-than-mild paravalvular leakage persisted post-operatively in cases where the transcatheter heart valve was placed at a normal height.

Annular rupture is more likely to occur in areas with high calcification at the joint than in noncalcified areas. Furthermore, the greater the calcification in the landing zone of the transcatheter heart valve, the more the paravalvular leakage persists. Therefore, high implantation of transcatheter heart valves above the left ventricular outflow tract calcification can be an effective method to avoid annular rupture and paravalvular leakage.

Newly onset conduction disturbances with the need for permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation remain the most common complication of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The objective was to evaluate the predictive value of clinical, ECG and new pre-procedural CT-imaging parameters for the requirement of PPM-implantation after TAVR.

2105 consecutive patients receiving TAVR using a balloon expandable prosthesis (Sapien 3, Edwards Lifesciences, Irving, CA, USA) at our institution were enrolled. Patients receiving a valve-in-valve prosthesis, TAVR after surgical repair, with missing or non-diagnostic CT-scans, with pre-implanted PPM and after TAVR in mitral position were excluded. The most suitable classification model for the given dataset was first identified through benchmark testing and later applied for prediction analysis.

312 eligible patients requiring PPM implantation were compared to an age- matched control group of 305 patients not requiring PPM implantation. A scaled LASSO model allowed for most accurate prediction with an AUC of 0.70. Right bundle branch block was the strongest predictor (OR 2.739), followed by atrioventricular block 1° (OR 2.091), prosthesis diameter (OR 1.351), atrial fibrillation (OR 1.255), arterial hypertension (OR 1.215), coronary artery disease (1.070), the angle of ventricle axis and aortic root (OR 1.030), sinotubular junction height (OR 1.014) and the calcification of the left coronary cuspid (OR 1.007).

ECG- and clinical outperform imaging parameters in predicting PPM-implantation following TAVR. Right bundle branch block emerged as the most significant predictor overall, while the angle of ventricle axis and aortic root as a novel imaging-based predictor.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is the main treatment option for patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) and older age. Improved imaging techniques have enabled better patient selection, and the main role is played by echocardiography. Methods more sensitive than LVEF in assessing cardiac function, such as global longitudinal strain (GLS) and myocardial work (MW), have become widespread, and other methods, like hemodynamic forces (HDFs), might be promising. The aim of this paper is to systematically review the parameters of GLS, MW, and HDF as predictors of reverse remodeling and their association with outcomes in patients with AS undergoing TAVI. In particular, the focus will be on the examination of the influence of TAVI on left atrial and ventricular function and right ventricular function.

Aortic stenosis (AS) is a common heart valve disease, especially in aging populations. While surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) is the standard treatment, many patients are ineligible. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) offers an alternative, especially for high-risk patients, but is not without complications. Identifying biomarkers that predict post-TAVI mortality is essential for optimizing outcomes.

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the role of cardiac and inflammatory biomarkers in predicting short-term and mid to long-term mortality following TAVI.

We searched PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science for studies examining the impact of inflammatory and cardiac biomarkers on mortality following TAVI. Mean differences (MDs) and 95 % confidence interval (CI) were calculated using a random-effect model.

Twenty-eight studies involving 10,560 patients were included, with 1867 in the mortality group. Mortality was significantly associated with higher pre-procedural levels of creatinine (0.41; 95 % CI: [0.35, 0.48]), brain natriuretic peptide (0.58; 95 % CI: [0.43, 0.73]), C-reactive protein (0.55; 95 % CI: [0.45, 0.64]), and white blood cell count (0.18; 95 % CI: [0.06, 0.31]), and lower pre-procedural levels of hemoglobin (-0.49; 95 % CI: [-0.60, -0.38]) and albumin (-0.18; 95 % CI: [-0.24, -0.13]). These associations remained statistically significant in subgroup analyses for both mid to long-term mortality and short-term mortality, except for WBC levels, which were not significantly associated with short-term mortality, and Hb, for which short-term data were insufficient. Platelet count showed no significant difference.

These findings highlight the importance of inflammatory and cardiac biomarkers in risk stratification and patient management in TAVI procedures.

Right ventricular (RV) function assessment by echocardiography can be challenging due to its complex morphology. Also, increasing use of sedation rather than general anesthesia for transfemoral approach transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) reduces the need for intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Recent clinical studies have demonstrated the importance of 3-dimensional (3D) echocardiography and a longitudinal strain for RV function assessment. In this study, we compared RV function echocardiographic assessment methodologies in TAVR and investigated its clinical utility.

This was a prospective, observational study of TAVR at a large academic hospital. Inclusion criteria were adult patients undergoing TAVR requiring intraoperative TEE between April 2023 and October 2023. Exclusion criteria include an absolute contraindication to TEE, a pacemaker, or suboptimal intraoperative echocardiography images. The primary goal is to assess the correlation of 3D RV ejection fraction (EF) with RV fraction area change (FAC), and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE). The secondary goal is to assess the correlation of RV free wall longitudinal strain (FWLS) with any newly diagnosed postoperative ventricular arrhythmia, including complete atrioventricular block (CAVB) and left bundle branch block (LBBB).

Among 33 patients who underwent TAVR, 4 patients were excluded due to poor image quality, and 7 patients were excluded due to existing pacemaker. Thus, data for 22 patients were analyzed in this study. There was a good correlation between 3D RVEF and RV FAC (correlation coefficient 0.789. p = 0.0000482), but poor correlation between 3D RVEF and TAPSE (correlation coefficient 0.182. p = 0.444). Eight patients developed a new left or right BBB and CAVB postoperatively, and 3 patients required permanent pacemaker. Regression analysis of pre and post valve deployment showed RV free wall RVFWLS was each correlated with postoperative new BBB or CAVB (pre valve deployment: hazard ratio 1.272, 95% CI 1.075 to 1.505, p = 0.004981; post valve deployment: hazard ratio 1.134, 95% CI 1.001 to 1.286, p = 0.04846). No mortality was reported during the follow-up period, and no significant tricuspid regurgitation (more than moderate) was reported.

3D RVEF and RV FAC showed a good correlation. Intraoperative RVFWLS has the potential to predict postoperative new occurrence of BBB or CAVB.

Introduction: Patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESRD) represent a high-risk population in terms of both development of and death by cardiovascular diseases. Outcome data of ESRD patients with severe aortic valve stenosis (AS) treated by transcatheter aortic valve implantation (AVI) are scarce. We aim to compare the outcome of ESRD patients undergoing transfemoral (TF) or transapical (TA) AVI. Methods: From June 2006 to December 2019, 176 consecutive patients with ESRD receiving chronic hemodialysis underwent TF- or TA-AVI at two German heart centers. The primary outcome measure was 1-year all-cause mortality. Other outcomes included VARC-3 defined device success and early safety. Results: The cohort comprised 61 (34.7%) patients receiving TA-AVI and 115 (65.3%) patients receiving TF-AVI. Perioperative risk, assessed using the EuroScore II, was not different between groups. VARC-3 defined device success (52.5% vs. 80.0%, p < 0.001) and early safety (27.9% vs. 45.2%, p = 0.025) were lower in TA-AVI patients compared to the TF-AVI group. The 30-day mortality was 4.7-fold higher in TA- compared TF-AVI patients (24.6% vs. 5.2%, p < 0.001). The 1-year mortality was higher in TA- compared with TF-AVI patients (57.3% vs. 27.8%, p < 0.001). By applying a Cox regression analysis, it was found that TA-AVI was the only independent factor associated with 1-year all-cause mortality (HRadj 2.65 (95%-CI 1.63-4.30), p < 0.001). Conclusions: In ESRD patients, TA-AVI was associated with worse early outcomes and increased mortality up to 1 year compared to the TF-AVI. Transfemoral access is recommended, when feasible, in ESRD patients undergoing TAVI.

Background: Aortic valve replacement has undergone novel changes in recent decades, providing not only a multitude of procedural options but expanding the treatable patient population. Specifically, a number of minimally invasive and interventional treatment options have allowed for the treatment of high and prohibitive risk surgical patients. Further, technology is allowing for the development of innovative surgical and transcatheter valve models, which will advance the treatment of aortic valve disease in the future. Objective: Here, we choose to describe the modern aortic valve replacement techniques and the available valves and designs.

This study aimed to develop a force analysis model correlating fluoroscopic images of self-expandable valves with stress distribution. For this purpose, a nonmetallic measuring device designed to apply diverse forces at specific positions on a valve stent while simultaneously measuring force magnitude was manufactured, obtaining 465 sets of fluorescent films under different force conditions, resulting in 5580 images and their corresponding force tables. Using the XrayGLM, a mechanical analysis model based on valve fluorescence images was trained. The accuracy of the image force analysis using this model was approximately 70% (50-88.3%), with a relative accuracy of 93.3% (75-100%). This confirms that fluoroscopic images of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) valve stents contain a wealth of mechanical information, and machine learning can be used to train models to recognize the relationship between stent images and force distribution, enhancing the understanding of TAVR complications.

Heart failure (HF) and aortic stenosis (AS) frequently coexist, presenting a complex clinical challenge due to their intertwined pathophysiology and associated high morbidity and mortality. Despite numerous advancements in transcatheter and surgical aortic valve replacement (AVR), HF decompensation remains the leading cause of cardiac rehospitalization and a major predictor of mortality in patients with AS, before or after AVR. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the interplay between AS and HF, delving into myocardial changes caused by stenotic insult, the impact of AVR on these changes, and the prevalence and contributing elements of HF before and after AVR.

The prevalence of HF remains high before and after AVR, particularly among patients with left ventricular dysfunction. Increased afterload from AS causes cardiac remodeling, which is initially benign but over time these changes become maladaptive, contributing to HF and increased mortality. The progression of HF is influenced by the degree of reverse cardiac remodeling, which can be affected by comorbid conditions, the hemodynamic performance of the valve prosthesis, and vascular stiffness. Several blood and imaging biomarkers offer insights into underlying AS pathophysiology, serving as mortality predictors and predicting HF in this patient population.

HF development in AS is multifactorial and its link to left ventricular dysfunction is a complex process. Delineating the determinants of HF admissions in AS is crucial for identifying individuals at high risk. Identifying the early signs of left ventricular decompensation by using surrogate markers may be the key, even before left ventricular function becomes impaired. Translating multimodality imaging techniques and biomarkers into routine clinical practice for evaluating cardiac damage and integrating these markers with patient and procedural factors that affect HF before and after AVR can facilitate timely intervention, minimizing the likelihood of HF progression and influencing future guidelines.

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has revolutionized the management of aortic stenosis and has become the standard of care across a broad spectrum of patients with aortic stenosis. However, it is still associated with high incidence of conduction abnormalities, particularly new left bundle branch block (LBBB). Management of these patients remains a challenge.

The study sought to assess the clinical outcomes of patients with post-TAVR conduction disorders managed according to a prespecified institutionally developed algorithm.

A retrospective analysis including all patients undergoing TAVR in our institute between October 2018 and December 2022 was performed. Patients with new LBBB were managed according to the algorithm comprising QRS width and electrophysiology study. In-hospital and 1-year clinical outcomes were assessed.

A total of 230 patients were included in the present analysis. Seventy (30.4%) patients developed new LBBB after TAVR. Overall, 44 (19.1%) patients required permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation: 20 (8.7%) patients with Mobitz II, complete atrioventricular block, or alternating bundle branch block; 21 (9.1%) patients with persistent new LBBB; and 3 (1.3%) patients per physician discretion. During 1-year follow-up, only 3 patients required late PPM implantation, of whom there was only 1 patient with new LBBB. There was no difference in mortality or heart failure hospitalizations between the per PPM and no PPM groups. Multivariable analysis identified atrial fibrillation, chronic kidney disease, and pre-TAVR right bundle branch block as independent predictors for PPM implantation following TAVR.

Our findings suggest that the presented algorithm may serve as a safe and efficacious strategy for management of patient with post-TAVR LBBB, although the PPM implantation rate may be further reduced.