Comparison of the self-expanding Evolut-PRO transcatheter aortic valve to its predecessor Evolut-R in the real world multicenter ATLAS registry

Conduction Abnormalities after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: Incidence, Impact and Management Using CT Data Interpretation

The demonstrated safety and effectiveness of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) among low surgical risk patients opened the road to its application in younger low-risk patients. However, the occurrence of conduction abnormalities and need for permanent pacemaker implantation remains a frequent problem associated with adverse outcomes. The clinical implications may become greater when TAVI shifts towards younger populations, highlighting the need for comprehensive strategies to address this issue. Beyond currently available clinical and electrocardiographic predictors, patient-specific anatomical assessment of the aortic root using multi-sliced CT (MSCT) imaging can refine risk stratification. Moreover, leveraging MSCT data for computational 3D simulations to predict device-anatomy interactions may help guide procedural strategy to mitigate conduction abnormalities. The aims of this review are to summarise the incidence and clinical impact of new left bundle branch block and permanent pacemaker implantation post-TAVI using contemporary transcatheter heart valves; and highlight the value of MSCT data interpretation to improve the management of this complication.

Temporal trends with the Evolut family of self-expanding transcatheter heart valves: A single-center experience

BACKGROUND

The Evolut self-expanding valve (SEV) systems (Medtronic), were designed to accommodate varying valve sizes and reduce paravalvular leak (PVL) while maintaining a low delivery profile. These systems have evolved between product generations, alongside valve deployment techniques changing over time.

AIMS

This study aimed to examine whether these changes impacted clinical outcomes.

METHODS

EPROMPT is a prospective, investigator-initiated, postmarketing registry of consecutive patients undergoing transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) using the Evolut PRO/PRO+ SEV system. A total of 300 patients were divided into three consecutive cohorts of 100 patients according to implantation date (January to October 2018, November 2018 to July 2020, and August 2020 to November 2021). Procedural and clinical outcomes over these time periods were compared.

RESULTS

Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC)-2 device implantation success improved over time (70.0% vs. 78.0% vs. 88.8%, p = 0.01), with a similar trend for VARC-3 device success (94.7% vs. 81.7% vs. 96.8%, p < 0.001). PVL (all degrees) frequency was likewise reduced over time (31.0% vs. 17.0% vs. 19.2%, p = 0.04). Furthermore, a trend was noticed toward shorter procedure times and shorter length of stay. However, postprocedural pacemaker implantation rates did not significantly differ (15.2% vs. 21.1% vs. 14.0%, p = 0.43).

CONCLUSION

During a 3-year period, we demonstrated better TAVR outcomes with newer SEV iterations, alongside changes in implantation techniques, which might result in better procedural and clinical outcomes. However, we did not see a significant change in peri-procedural pacemaker rates for SEV.

Prosthesis Infolding Incidence and Short-Term Outcomes in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Using Evolut Self-Expandable Device: A Multicenter Study

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is an established treatment strategy in aortic valve disease. Infolding, as a nonuniform expansion of the prosthesis leading to introflection of part of the device circumference, is a complication specific to self-expandable prostheses. The aim of the study is to determine incidence, predictors, treatment strategy, and outcomes of infolding during Medtronic Evolut TAVI (Minneapolis, MN, US). Between January 2018 and March 2022, all patients treated with Evolut TAVI were included in a multicenter observational retrospective study. According to the occurrence of infolding, the enrolled cohort was divided into 2 groups; periprocedural characteristics and 30-day outcomes were compared. A total of 1,470 patients were included; 23 infolding cases (1.6%) were detected. Preprocedural imaging showed larger aortic anatomy and greater calcium burden in the infolding group. Infolding occurred mostly with Evolut Pro+ and size 34 mm and was diagnosed before full prosthesis release in 78.3%. The rate of moderate-to-severe paravalvular regurgitation was higher in the infolding group (21.7% vs 1.9%, p <0.001). Short-term follow-up showed greater all-cause and cardiovascular mortality (respectively, 4.3% vs 0.7% and 4.3% vs 0.6%, p <0.05) and higher rate of pacemaker implantation (33.3% vs 15.7%, p = 0.042) in case of infolding. High right cusp calcium score and resheathing maneuvers were independent predictors of infolding. In conclusion, prosthesis infolding is a TAVI complication burdened by worse cardiovascular outcomes. Prompt intraprocedural infolding diagnosis is pivotal, especially in case of great native valve calcium burden and resheathing maneuvers, to safely overcome this complication by prosthesis recapture or postdilation.

Comparing two-year outcomes of balloon-expandable Myval and self-expanding Evolut R in severe aortic valve stenosis

BACKGROUND

The new balloon-expandable (BE) Myval transcatheter heart valves (THV) has shown promising early results with low paravalvular leak (PVL) and permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) rates. Limited data are available regarding its long-term performance. We aimed to compare the 2-year clinical and echocardiographic outcomes of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) using the self-expanding (SE) Evolut R and the BE Myval THVs.

METHODS

The EVAL study included 166 patients with severe aortic valve stenosis who underwent TAVR either with SE Evolut R (n = 108) or BE Myval (n = 58) THV. Primary objectives include comparison on clinical efficacy (freedom from all-cause mortality, stroke, and cardiovascular hospitalization), echocardiographic performance and PPI rates between the two THVs.

RESULTS

At 2-year the BE Myval group showed higher clinical efficacy (86% vs. 66%,HR:2.62, 95%CI 2.2-5.1;p = 0.006), with fewer cardiac hospitalizations (3.4% vs. 13.9%,p = 0.03). No significant differences in all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, or stroke rates were observed. The proportion of patients with ≥moderate PVL was significantly lower in the BE Myval compared to the SE Evolut R group (4%vs. 22%,p = 0.008). The mean transvalvular gradient was significantly higher in the SE group compared to the BE group (9.5 ± 4.3 vs. 6.9 ± 2.2 mmHg,p < 0.001), however there was no difference in the percentage of patients with a mean gradient ≥20 mmHg between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Both THVs offer similar 2-year clinical outcomes. The BE Myval THV demonstrated advantages with higher clinical efficacy and lower PVL incidence. Longer follow-up and randomized trials are needed to validate these results and assess Myval's sustained performance and durability.

Transcatheter aortic valve durability, predictors of bioprosthetic valve dysfunction, longer-term outcomes - a review

INTRODUCTION

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is one of the most significant inventions in cardiology, as it provides a viable minimally invasive treatment option for patients with aortic stenosis, the most common valvular disease in the developed world and one with a poor prognosis when left untreated. Using data available to date, this review aims to discuss and identify possible predictors of TAVI valve durability - an essential requirement for the device's wide-spread use, especially in younger patients.

AREAS COVERED

This article explores the main causes of bioprosthetic valve dysfunction (BVD) based on pathophysiology and available data, and reviews possible predictors of BVD including prosthesis-related, procedure-related, and patient-related factors. An emphasis is made on affectable predictors, which could potentially be targeted with prevention management and improve valve durability. A literature search of online medical databases was conducted using relevant key words and dates; significant clinical trials were identified. A brief overview of important randomized controlled trials with mid to long-term follow-up is included in this article.

EXPERT OPINION

Identifying modifiable predictors of valve dysfunction presents an opportunity to enhance and predict valve durability - a necessity as patients with longer life-expectancies are being considered for the procedure.

Comparison of Paravalvular Leak in SAPIEN 3 and EVOLUT PRO Valves in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: A Multicenter Registry

Paravalvular leak (PVL), conduction disturbances, and vascular complications remain the most common complications after TAVR. To address these adverse outcomes, the third generation of transcatheter heart valves has been developed. The last generation prosthesis provides an outer pericardial wrap for enhanced sealing and PVL prevention. This study aimed to compare the incidence and severity of PVL and 1-year survival after TAVR using SAPIEN 3 with those using EVOLUT PRO. An observational retrospective analysis was conducted in 1,481 patients who underwent TAVR for symptomatic severe aortic stenosis in 6 different European centers. The primary end point was to assess the frequency and severity of PVL at 30 days after TAVR. The secondary end point was to compare 1-year survival using EVOLUT PRO with that using SAPIEN 3. SAPIEN 3 transcatheter heart valve was implanted in 78.3% of study participants (n = 1,160) whereas EVOLUT PRO was implanted in 21.7% (n = 321). PVL is more commonly observed in patients treated with EVOLUT PRO at prehospital discharge (55.1% vs 37.3%) and at 1-month (51% vs 41.4%) and 1-year (51.3% vs 39.3%) follow-up. This difference mainly concerns low-grade (mild/trace) PVL. The frequency of high-degree (moderate/severe) PVL was almost similar in both groups throughout the study period (5.3% vs 5.8% before hospital discharge, 4% vs 3.1% at 1 month, and 3.2% vs 4.9% at 1 year). No significant difference in survival over 1 year has been observed (hazard ratio 0.73 [0.33 to 1.63], p = 0.442) (Graphical abstract). In conclusion, the detection rate of PVL after TAVR with third-generation heart valves remains high, and there are no major differences between the devices regarding the frequency of significant (moderate/severe) PVL and survival.

Latest-iteration balloon- and self-expandable transcatheter valves for severe bicuspid aortic stenosis: the TRITON study

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

No comparisons have been published yet regarding the newest iteration of balloon- and self-expandable transcatheter heart valves for the treatment of bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) stenosis.

METHODS

Multicenter registry of consecutive patients with severe BAV stenosis treated with balloon-expandable transcatheter heart valves (Myval and SAPIEN 3 Ultra, S3U) or self-expanding Evolut PRO+(EP+). TriMatch analysis was carried out to minimize the impact of baseline differences. The primary endpoint of the study was 30-day device success, and the secondary endpoints were the composite and individual components of early safety at 30 days.

RESULTS

A total of 360 patients (age 76.6±7.6 years, 71.9% males) were included: 122 Myval (33.9%), 129 S3U (35.8%), and 109 EP+(30.3%). The mean STS score was 3.6±1.9%. There were no cases of coronary artery occlusion, annulus rupture, aortic dissection, or procedural death. The primary endpoint of device success at 30 days was significantly higher in the Myval group (Myval: 100%; S3U: 87.5%; and EP+: 81.3%), mainly due to higher residual aortic gradients with S3U and greater≥moderate aortic regurgitation (AR) with EP+. No significant differences were found in the unadjusted rate of pacemaker implantation.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with BAV stenosis deemed unsuitable for surgery, Myval, S3U and EP+showed similar safety but balloon-expandable Myval had better gradients than S3U, and both balloon-expandable devices had lower residual AR than EP+, suggesting that, taking into consideration the patient-specific risks, any of these devices can be selected with optimal outcomes.

Early experience with the Evolut FX self-expanding valve vs. Evolut PRO+ for patients with aortic stenosis undergoing TAVR

BACKGROUND

The Evolut FX system is the most recent generation of self-expandable transcatheter heart valve (THV) technology. This study aims to report the early experience and outcomes associated with this system.

METHODS

Our analysis included 200 consecutive patients who underwent transcatheter aortic valve replacement at our center from 2022 to 2023. The first cohort comprised the last 100 patients who received the Evolut PRO+ THV, while the second cohort included the first 100 patients who received the Evolut FX THV. The primary endpoints of the study were defined according to the Valve Academic Research Consortium-3 (VARC-3) criteria, which included technical success (at exit from procedure), device success (at discharge or at 30 days), and early safety (at 30 days).

RESULTS

The study groups demonstrated no significant differences in baseline characteristics, including co-morbidities, pre-procedural imaging, and echocardiography. VARC-3 technical success rate was 99 % for both valves. The VARC-3 device success rate for the Evolut FX was 92 % compared to 97 % for the Evolut PRO+ (p = 0.12), and VARC-3 early safety rate was 80.1 % for the Evolut PRO+ vs. 81.5 % for the Evolut FX (p = 0.82). The in-hospital permanent pacemaker implantation rate for the Evolut FX was 12 % compared to 9 % for the Evolut PRO+ (p = 0.21). There were no differences in clinical outcomes, such as mortality or stroke, between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The Evolut FX THV performed well when used for patients with severe aortic stenosis, demonstrating high success with low complication rates when compared to an earlier generation of self-expanding THV.

Evolut PRO/PRO+ versus Evolut R system for transcatheter aortic valve replacement

BACKGROUND

The self-expanding CoreValve Evolut PRO/PRO+ transcatheter aortic valve was designed to overcome the limitations of its forerunner, Evolut R. Evolut PRO/PRO+ offers the lowest delivery profile for 23-29 mm valves, with an external tissue wrap on all valve sizes. We compared safety and efficacy of Evolut PRO/PRO+ and Evolut R.

METHODS

We analyzed 300 patients enrolled in the EPROMPT Registry against a historical control cohort of 242 patients who received Evolut R. The two arms were matched (1:1) via propensity-score methodology by accounting for differences in Society of Thoracic Surgeons Predicted Risk of Mortality scores, yielding 440 patients. The endpoints included in-hospital safety clinical outcomes, all-cause mortality, and echocardiographic parameters at 30 days and 1 year.

RESULTS

After propensity-score matching, cardiac death (0.5% vs. 0.5%, p = 0.995), stroke (1.6% vs. 2.8%, p = 0.410), life-threatening bleeding (1.1% vs. 3.3%, p = 0.139), major vascular complications (0.5% vs. 0.9%, p = 0.653), and pacemaker implantation (16.9% vs. 13.6%, p = 0.345) were comparable between the Evolut PRO/PRO+ and Evolut R groups. Likewise, the rates of all-cause mortality were similar both at 30 days (0.5% vs. 1.4%, p = 0.315) and 1 year (1.8% vs. 4.1%, p = 0.159). The rates of moderate paravalvular leak (5.7% vs. 2.6%, p = 0.402), and mean gradient (7.27 ± 3.25 mmHg vs. 8.84 ± 4.36 mmHg, p = 0.105) were also comparable between groups at 1 year.

CONCLUSION

Our largest-to-date observational study suggests that the Evolut PRO/PRO+ system is safe and effective in treating severe aortic stenosis, with commensurate 30-day and 1-year mortality and similar 1-year echocardiographic hemodynamic outcomes in comparison to Evolut R.

Cusp overlap versus standard three-cusp technique for self-expanding Evolut transcatheter aortic valves

BACKGROUND

Reducing rates of permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is important for achieving the best procedural outcomes. The cusp overlap technique (COT) implements procedural steps including an overlap angulation of the right and left coronary cusp to mitigate this complication.

AIMS

We investigated the incidence of PPI and complication rates following the COT compared to the standard three-cusp implantation technique (3CT) in an all-comers cohort.

METHODS

A total of 2,209 patients underwent TAVI with the self-expanding Evolut platform from January 2016 to April 2022 at five sites. Baseline, procedural and in-hospital outcome characteristics were compared for both techniques before and after one-to-one propensity score matching.

RESULTS

A total of 1,151 patients were implanted using the 3CT and 1,058 using the COT. At discharge, the rates of PPI (17.0 vs 12.3%; p=0.002) and moderate/severe paravalvular regurgitation (4.6% vs 2.4%; p=0.006) were significantly reduced with the COT compared with 3CT within the unmatched cohort. Overall procedural success and complication rates were similar; major bleeding was less common in the COT group (7.0% vs 4.6%; p=0.020). These results remained consistent after propensity score matching. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, right bundle branch block (odds ratio [OR] 7.19, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.18-10.0; p<0.001) and diabetes mellitus (OR 1.38, 95% CI: 1.05-1.80; p=0.021) emerged as predictors of PPI, whereas the COT (OR 0.63, 95% CI: 0.49-0.82; p<0.001) was protective.

CONCLUSIONS

The introduction of the COT was associated with a significant and relevant reduction of PPI and paravalvular regurgitation rates without an increase in complication rates.

Valve-Related Complications in TAVI Leading to Emergent Cardiac Surgery

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is now a standard procedure for the treatment of symptomatic aortic valve stenosis in many patients. In Germany, according to the annual reports from the German Institute for Quality Assurance and Transparency in Healthcare (Institut für Qualitätssicherung und Transparenz im Gesundheitswesen), the rate of serious intraprocedural complications, such as valve malpositioning or embolization, coronary obstruction, aortic dissection, annular rupture, pericardial tamponade, or severe aortic regurgitation requiring emergency cardiac surgery has decreased markedly in recent years from more than 5.5% in 2012 to 2.0% in 2019. However, with increased use, the total number of adverse events remains about 500 per year, about 100 of which require conversion to sternotomy. These, sometimes, fatal events can occur at any time and are still challenging. Therefore, the interdisciplinary TAVI heart team should be prepared and aware of possible rescue strategies.

Impact of Evolution of Self-Expandable Aortic Valve Design: Peri-Operative and Short-Term Outcomes

A few data exist on the differences of implantable aortic valve bio-prostheses. We investigate three generations of self-expandable aortic valves in terms of the outcomes. Patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) were allocated into three groups according to the valve type: group A (CoreValve^TM), group B (Evolut^TMR) and group C (Evolut^TMPRO). The implantation depth, device success, electrocardiographic parameters, need for permanent pacemaker (PPM), and paravalvular leak (PVL) were assessed. In the study, 129 patients were included. The final implantation depth did not differ among the groups (p = 0.07). CoreValve^TM presented greater upward jump of the valve at release (2.88 ± 2.33 mm vs. 1.48 ± 1.09 mm and 1.71 ± 1.35 mm, for groups A, B, and C, respectively, p = 0.011). The device success (at least 98% for all groups, p = 1.00) and PVL rates (67% vs. 58%, vs. 60% for groups A, B, and C, respectively, p = 0.64) did not differ. PPM implantation within 24 h (33% vs. 19% vs. 7% for groups A, B, and C, respectively, p = 0.006) and until discharge (group A: 38% vs. group B: 19% and group C: 9%, p = 0.005) was lower in the newer generation valves. Newer generation valves present better device positioning, more predictable deployment, and fewer rates of PPM implantation. No significant difference in PVL was observed.

Outcomes of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Comparing Medtronic's Evolut PRO and Evolut R: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has become a broadly acceptable alternative to AV surgery in patients with aortic stenosis (AS). New valve designs are becoming available to address the shortcomings of their predecessors and improve clinical outcomes.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out to compare Medtronic's Evolut PRO, a new valve, with the previous Evolut R design. Procedural, functional and clinical endpoints according to the VARC-2 criteria were assessed.

RESULTS

Eleven observational studies involving N = 12,363 patients were included. Evolut PRO patients differed regarding age (p < 0.001), sex (p < 0.001) and STS-PROM estimated risk. There was no difference between the two devices in terms of TAVI-related early complications and clinical endpoints. A 35% reduction of the risk of moderate-to-severe paravalvular leak (PVL) favoring the Evolut PRO was observed (RR 0.66, 95%CI, [0.52, 0.86] p = 0.002; I2 = 0%). Similarly, Evolut PRO-treated patients demonstrated a reduction of over 35% in the risk of serious bleeding as compared with the Evolut R (RR 0.63, 95%CI, [0.41, 0.96]; p = 0.03; I2 = 39%), without differences in major vascular complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The evidence shows good short-term outcomes of both the Evolut PRO and Evolut R prostheses, with no differences in clinical and procedural endpoints. The Evolut PRO was associated with a lower rate of moderate-to-severe PVL and major bleeding.

Impact of implantation technique on conduction disturbances for TAVR with the self-expanding portico/navitor valve

BACKGROUND

Use of a right-left (R-L) cusp overlap view for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) with self-expanding valves has recently been proposed aiming to reduce permanent pacemaker implantation (PPMI). An objective, data-driven explanation for this observation is missing.

AIMS

To assess the impact of different implantation techniques on the risk of PPMI following TAVR with the Portico/NavitorTM transcatheter heart valve (THV; Abbott).

METHODS

A TAVR-population treated with Portico/NavitorTM had the THV implanted in a right versus left anterior oblique (RAO/LAO) fluoroscopic view with no parallax in the delivery system. The impact of these different implantation views on the spatial relationship between THV and native aortic annulus and the risk of conduction disturbances and PPMI after TAVR was studied.

RESULTS

A total of 366 matched TAVR patients were studied: 183 in the RAO group and 183 in the LAO group. The degree of aortic annulus plane tilt was significantly smaller in the RAO versus LAO group (median: 0° vs. 23°, p < 0.001), with no plane tilt in 105 out of 183 cases (57.3%) in the RAO group. At 30 days after TAVR, the overall PPMI and guideline-directed PPMI rates were 12.6% versus 18.0% (p = 0.15) and 8.2% versus 15.3% (p = 0.04) in the RAO versus LAO group, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of a R-L cusp overlap (RAO-caudal) view for implantation of the Portico/NavitorTM valve results in less tilt of the native aortic annulus plane and a clear trend toward a lower 30-day PPMI rate as compared to TAVR using the conventional LAO implantation view.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation with different self-expanding devices-a propensity score-matched multicenter comparison

OBJECTIVE

Several supra-annular self-expanding transcatheter systems are commercially available for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Comparative data in large-scale multicenter studies are scant.

METHODS

This study included a total of 5175 patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing TAVI with the ACURATE neo (n = 1095), Evolut R (n = 3365), or Evolut PRO (n = 715) by a transfemoral approach at five high-volume centers. Propensity score matching resulted in 654 triplets. Outcomes are reported according to the Valve Academic Research Consortium-3 (VARC-3) consensus.

RESULTS

Moderate or severe paravalvular regurgitation (PVR) occurred significantly more often in the ACURATE neo group (5.2%) than in the Evolut R (1.8%) and Evolut PRO (3.3%) groups (p = 0.003). The rates of major vascular-/access-related complications (4.6%, 3.8%, and 5.0%; p = 0.56), type 3 or 4 bleeding (3.2%, 2.1%, and 4.1%; p = 0.12), and 30-day mortality (2.4%, 2.6%, and 3.7%; p = 0.40) were comparable. The rate of new permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) was significantly lower in the ACURATE neo group (9.5%, 17.6%, and 16.8%; p < 0.001). Independent predictors for 2-year survival were a Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) risk score ≥5%, diabetes mellitus, a glomerular filtration rate <30 ml/min, baseline mean transvalvular gradient ≤ 30 mm Hg, treating center, and relevant PVR.

CONCLUSION

In this multicenter study, TAVI with the ACURATE neo, Evolut R, or Evolut PRO was feasible and safe. The rate of relevant PVR was more frequent after the ACURATE neo implantation, with, however, lower rates of PPI. Two-year survival was mainly driven by baseline comorbidities.

Validation of the Emory Risk Score in the Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Population: A Canadian Perspective

Background

Permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation may be indicated post-transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). The Emory Risk Score (ERS) is a validated predictive risk score of the need for a PPM post-TAVI using a balloon-expandable valve. Our objectives were to determine the validity of the ERS in our local TAVI population with both balloon-expandable and self-expanding valves and to identify additional electrocardiographic (ECG) parameters predictive of the need for a PPM post-TAVI.

Methods

Retrospective chart and electronic database reviews were performed to collect demographic and procedural information. Two expert readers reviewed all ECGs. Independent factors associated with PPM implantation were examined with multivariable logistic regression via a stepwise selection process with calculation of the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve to assess model discrimination.

Results

The overall PPM implantation rate was 11.7%; rates were 9% for the Sapien 3 valves, 10% for the Evolut Pro valves, and 17% for the Evolut R valves. The ERS was found to not be predictive of need for PPM post-TAVI for the entire cohort. Right bundle branch block was the only ERS parameter independently associated with new PPM implant (8.5% vs 25%, odds ratio = 3.59, P = 0.01). No additional ECG parameters met the criteria for statistical significance.

Conclusions

The poor predictive value of the ERS in determining the need for a PPM post-TAVI in our patient population suggests that further refinement of a formula (or risk-calculator) is warranted. Identification of a precise risk-calculator is likely to facilitate patient mobilization and reduce inpatient healthcare resource utilization.

From the Evolut Pro to the Evolut FX self-expanding transcatheter aortic valve replacement systems: current status and future perspectives

INTRODUCTION

Since the initial experience with the CoreValve (Medtronic, Minneapolis, Minnesota), there have been continuous iterations of this valve system in order to improve procedural success and reduce periprocedural complications. The Evolut Pro, Pro+, and FX are the latest generations of this transcatheter heart valve (THV).

AREAS COVERED

This review paper aims to analyze the main characteristics and clinical evidence about the Evolut Pro THV and summarize the main iterations of the newer generation Evolut FX valve system.

EXPERT OPINION

The Evolut Pro system has been associated with good clinical outcomes and excellent valve hemodynamic performance including reduced rates of paravalvular leaks. Technical enhancements to improve valve positioning, orientation, and vascular access have been implemented in the newer generation Evolut FX system.

Hemodynamic Performance of Two Current-Generation Transcatheter Heart Valve Prostheses in Severely Calcified Aortic Valve Stenosis

BACKGROUND

Treatment of severely calcified aortic valve stenosis is associated with a higher rate of paravalvular leakage (PVL) and permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI). We hypothesized that the self-expanding transcatheter heart valve (THV) prostheses Evolut Pro (EPro) is comparable to the balloon-expandable Sapien 3 (S3) regarding hemodynamics, PPI, and clinical outcome in these patients.

METHODS

From 2014 to 2019, all patients with very severe calcification of the aortic valve who received an EPro or an S3 THV were included. Propensity score matching was utilized to create two groups of 170 patients.

RESULTS

At discharge, there was significant difference in transvalvular gradients (EPro vs. S3) (dPmean 8.1 vs. 11.1 mmHg, p ≤ 0.001) and indexed effective orifice area (EOAi) (1.1 vs. 0.9, p ≤ 0.001), as well as predicted EOAi (1 vs. 0.9, p ≤ 0.001). Moderate patient prosthesis mismatch (PPM) was significantly lower in the EPro group (17.7% vs. 38%, p ≤ 0.001), as well as severe PPM (2.9% vs. 8.8%, p = 0.03). PPI and the PVL rate as well as stroke, bleeding, vascular complication, and 30-day mortality were comparable.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with severely calcified aortic valves, both THVs performed similarly in terms of 30-day mortality, PPI rate, and PVL occurrence. However, patient prothesis mismatch was observed more often in the S3 group, which might be due to the intra-annular design.

Patient-Specific Computer Simulation to Predict Conduction Disturbance With Current-Generation Self-Expanding Transcatheter Heart Valves

Background

Patient-specific computer simulation may predict the development of conduction disturbance following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Validation of the computer simulations with current-generation devices has not been undertaken.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed on patients who had undergone TAVR with a current-generation self-expanding transcatheter heart valve (THV). Preprocedural computed tomography imaging was used to create finite element models of the aortic root. Procedural contrast angiography was reviewed, and finite element analysis performed using a matching THV device size and implantation depth. A region of interest corresponding to the atrioventricular bundle and proximal left bundle branch was identified. The percentage of this area (contact pressure index [CPI]) and maximum contact pressure (CPMax) exerted by THV were recorded. Postprocedural electrocardiograms were reviewed, and major conduction disturbance was defined as the development of persistent left bundle branch block or high-degree atrioventricular block.

Results

A total of 80 patients were included in the study. THVs were 23- to 29-mm Evolut PRO (n = 53) and 34-mm Evolut R (n = 27). Major conduction disturbance occurred in 27 patients (33.8%). CPI (28.3 ± 15.8 vs. 15.6 ± 11.2%; p < 0.001) and CPMax (0.51 ± 0.20 vs. 0.36 ± 0.24 MPa; p = 0.008) were higher in patients who developed major conduction disturbance. CPI (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC], 0.74; 95% CI, 0.63-0.86; p < 0.001) and CPMax (AUC, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.57-0.81; p = 0.006) demonstrated a discriminatory power to predict the development of major conduction disturbance.

Conclusions

Patient-specific computer simulation may identify patients at risk for conduction disturbance after TAVR with current-generation self-expanding THVs.

An Update on New Generation Transcatheter Aortic Valves and Delivery Systems

Over the last 15 years, the management of aortic valve disease has been changed by transcatheter aortic valve replacement, which has become the standard of care across the entire spectrum of surgical risk. As a result of continuous evolution of this technique, several next-generation transcatheter heart valves (THVs) have been developed to minimize procedural complications and improve patient outcomes. This review aims to provide an update on the new generation THVs and delivery systems.

A CT-based technique to predict optimal projection for self-expanding TAVI in patients with different aortic valve anatomies

Background

Optimal projection is essential for valve deployment during transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). The purpose of this study was to propose an approach to predict optimal projection in TAVI candidates with different aortic valve anatomies.

Methods

331 patients undergoing self-expanding TAVI were included and the so-called non-coronary cusp (NCC)-parallel technique was utilized, which generated the predicted projection by connecting NCC commissures on the transverse plane on the pre-procedural computed tomography images.

Results

37.8% of the study cohort were bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) patients. Around 80% of both NCC-parallel views and final views were in the right anterior oblique (RAO) and caudal (CAU) quadrant. There was less than 5° change required from the NCC-parallel view to the final implanted view in 79% of tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) patients but only in 27% (13/48) of type 0 BAV patients with coronary arteries originated from the different cusps. After excluding the above mentioned BAV patients, 62.3% (48/77) of BAV patients needed less than 5° change to achieve optimal projection and only in 8 patients, the angular change was larger than 10° in either left/right anterior oblique or cranial/caudal direction.

Conclusions

The NCC-parallel technique provides reliable prediction for optimal projection in self-expanding TAVI in all TAV and most BAV patients, with a vast majority of views in the RAO and CAU quadrant.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12872-021-02387-7.

The selection of transcatheter heart valves in transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Transcatheter heart valve technology has rapidly progressed since initial approval in the United States. There are currently two widely available transcatheter heart valve delivery systems approved in the US; however limited data exist on optimal device selection for various patient populations. This review explores the characteristics of currently approved transcatheter heart valve systems and scenarios where one valve system may be favored over others. We provide a simplified decision tree for selecting the optimal transcatheter valve system for specific patient-centered characteristics.

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement using the new Evolut-Pro system: a prospective comparison with the Evolut-R device

Background

Evolut Pro (EVP) is a novel self-expandable aortic valve. This prosthesis consists of an external porcine pericardial wrap designed to reduce paravalvular leak (PVL), maintaining the benefits of its predecessor, the Evolut R (EVR). The aim was to compare the functional and clinical results in the short and medium term of the new EVP with the EVR system.

Methods

Consecutive patients receiving either the EVR (n=50) or the EVP (n=33) from June 2015 to October 2018 were compared. Baseline characteristics, cardiovascular imaging, procedural outcomes, short and mid-term follow-up outcomes were prospectively collected and assessed.

Results

Residual mild PVL was common and comparable in the two groups (EVR 79% vs. EVP 70%; P=0.4). In the EVR group, the presence of PVL was directly related to prosthesis size, but this correlation was not observed in the EVP group. Conduction abnormalities were more prevalent with the EVP, but these did not translate into a higher need of permanent pacemaker implantation. Vascular and bleeding complications were infrequent in both groups. At mid-term clinical follow-up (median survival time: EVR 11±0.3 months, EVP 12±0.2 months), the 1-year rate of adverse events was similar (EVR: 24%, EVP: 33%; P=0.3).

Conclusions

Both protheses are effective for the treatment of severe aortic stenosis with excellent results at mid-term clinical follow up. The EVP remains associated with a significant rate of residual mild PVL that appears to be similar to that observed with EVR.

Advancements in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: A Focused Update

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has become the leading technique for aortic valve replacement in symptomatic patients with severe aortic stenosis with conventional surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) now limited to patients younger than 65-75 years due to a combination of unsuitable anatomies (calcified raphae in bicuspid valves, coexistent aneurysm of the ascending aorta) and concerns on the absence of long-term data on TAVI durability. This incredible rise is linked to technological evolutions combined with increased operator experience, which led to procedural refinements and, accordingly, to better outcomes. The article describes the main and newest technical improvements, allowing an extension of the indications (valve-in-valve procedures, intravascular lithotripsy for severely calcified iliac vessels), and a reduction of complications (stroke, pacemaker implantation, aortic regurgitation).