Coronary Angiography and Percutaneous Coronary Intervention After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2018;71:1360-1378. [PMID: 29566822 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2018.01.057]

Coronary access after repeat transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients of small body size: A simulation study

BACKGROUND

Coronary artery access after repeat transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAV-in-TAV) is reportedly more difficult because leaflet displacement of the first transcatheter heart valve (THV) impairs coronary cannulation; however, its effects in small patients are unknown. This study aimed to simulate coronary accessibility after TAV-in-TAV in patients of small body size.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed computed tomography scans after initial THV implantation and classified patients by THV and coronary artery location, valve-to-aorta distance, and valve-to-coronary distance. Risks were compared between the SAPIEN and CoreValve/Evolut series, among THV generations, and between bicuspid and tricuspid aortic valves in the CoreValve/Evolut series.

RESULTS

A total of 254 patients (SAPIEN series, n = 164; CoreValve/Evolut series, n = 90) were enrolled. The average body surface area of the patients was 1.44 m2. Patients were classified as "feasible" (26%), "theoretically feasible with low risk" (19.7%), "theoretically feasible with high risk" (8.7%), or "unfeasible" (45.8%). The "unfeasible" rate was significantly higher in the CoreValve/Evolut series than in the SAPIEN series (78.9% vs 26.2%; P < .001). A significantly higher "unfeasible" rate was identified in the current model of SAPIEN (SAPIEN, 8.3%; SAPIENXT, 1.8%; SAPIEN3, 48.2%; P < .001), but not in the CoreValve/Evolut series (CoreValve, 83.3%; Evolut R, 80.0%; Evolut PRO, 71.4%; P = .587). Patients with a bicuspid aortic valve had a lower "unfeasible" rate compared to those with a tricuspid aortic valve (60.0% vs 86.2%; P = .014).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients of small body size may have a high probability of "unfeasible" coronary access after TAV-in-TAV, especially when treated with current high-frame devices, suggesting the need for careful strategic planning for initial THV implantation.

CT imaging post-TAVI: Murphy's first law in action-preparing to recognize the unexpected

Transfemoral aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has been long considered the standard of therapy for high-risk patients with severe aortic-stenosis and is now effectively employed in place of surgical aortic valve replacement also in intermediate-risk patients. The potential lasting consequences of minor complications, which might have limited impact on elderly patients, could be more noteworthy in the longer term when occurring in younger individuals. That's why a greater focus on early diagnosis, correct management, and prevention of post-procedural complications is key to achieve satisfactory results. ECG-triggered multidetector computed tomography angiography (CTA) is the mainstay imaging modality for pre-procedural planning of TAVI and is also used for post-interventional early detection of both acute and long-term complications. CTA allows detailed morphological analysis of the valve and its movement throughout the entire cardiac cycle. Moreover, stent position, coronary artery branches, and integrity of the aortic root can be precisely evaluated. Imaging reliability implies the correct technical setting of the computed tomography scan, knowledge of valve type, normal post-interventional findings, and awareness of classic and life-threatening complications after a TAVI procedure. This educational review discusses the main post-procedural complications of TAVI with a specific imaging focus, trying to clearly describe the technical aspects of CTA Imaging in post-TAVI and its clinical applications and challenges, with a final focus on future perspectives and emerging technologies. CRITICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: This review undertakes an analysis of the role computed tomography angiography (CTA) plays in the assessment of post-TAVI complications. Highlighting the educational issues related to the topic, empowers radiologists to refine their clinical approach, contributing to enhanced patient care. KEY POINTS: Prompt recognition of TAVI complications, ranging from value issues to death, is crucial. Adherence to recommended scanning protocols, and the optimization of tailored protocols, is essential. CTA is central in the diagnosis of TAVI complications and functions as a gatekeeper to treatment.

Impact of leaflet splitting on coronary access after redo-TAVI for degenerated supra-annular self-expanding platforms

BACKGROUND

Coronary access (CA) is a major concern in redo-transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) for failing supra-annular self-expanding transcatheter aortic valves (TAVs).

AIMS

This ex vivo study evaluated the benefit of leaflet splitting (LS) on subsequent CA after redo-TAVI in anatomies deemed at high risk of unfeasible CA.

METHODS

Ex vivo, patient-specific models were printed three-dimensionally. Index TAVI was performed using ACURATE neo2 or Evolut PRO (TAV-1) at the standard implant depth and with different degrees of commissural misalignment (CMA). Redo-TAVI was performed using the balloon-expandable SAPIEN 3 Ultra (TAV-2) at different implant depths with commissural alignment. Selective CA was attempted for each configuration before and after LS in a pulsatile flow simulator. The leaflet splay area was assessed on the bench.

RESULTS

In matched comparisons of 128 coronary cannulations across 64 redo-TAVI configurations, the overall feasibility of CA significantly increased after LS (60.9% vs 18.7%; p<0.001). The effect of LS varied according to the sinotubular junction height, TAV-1 design, TAV-1 CMA, and TAV-2 implant depth, given TAV-2 alignment. LS enabled CA for up to CMA 45° with the ACURATE neo2 TAV-1 and up to CMA 30° with the Evolut PRO TAV-1. The combination of LS and a low TAV-2 implant provided the highest feasibility of CA after redo-TAVI. The leaflet splay area ranged from 25.60 mm2 to 37.86 mm2 depending on the TAV-1 platform and TAV-2 implant depth.

CONCLUSIONS

In high-risk anatomies, LS significantly improves CA feasibility after redo-TAVI for degenerated supra-annular self-expanding platforms. Decisions on redo-TAVI feasibility should be carefully individualised, taking into account the expected benefit of LS on CA for each scenario.

Effect of Sinotubular Junction Size on TAVR Leaflet Thrombosis: A Fluid-Structure Interaction Analysis

TAVR has emerged as a standard approach for treating severe aortic stenosis patients. However, it is associated with several clinical complications, including subclinical leaflet thrombosis characterized by Hypoattenuated Leaflet Thickening (HALT). A rigorous analysis of TAVR device thrombogenicity considering anatomical variations is essential for estimating this risk. Clinicians use the Sinotubular Junction (STJ) diameter for TAVR sizing, but there is a paucity of research on its influence on TAVR devices thrombogenicity. A Medtronic Evolut® TAVR device was deployed in three patient models with varying STJ diameters (26, 30, and 34 mm) to evaluate its impact on post-deployment hemodynamics and thrombogenicity, employing a novel computational framework combining prosthesis deployment and fluid-structure interaction analysis. The 30 mm STJ patient case exhibited the best hemodynamic performance: 5.94 mmHg mean transvalvular pressure gradient (TPG), 2.64 cm2 mean geometric orifice area (GOA), and the lowest mean residence time (TR)-indicating a reduced thrombogenic risk; 26 mm STJ exhibited a 10 % reduction in GOA and a 35% increase in mean TPG compared to the 30 mm STJ; 34 mm STJ depicted hemodynamics comparable to the 30 mm STJ, but with a 6% increase in TR and elevated platelet stress accumulation. A smaller STJ size impairs adequate expansion of the TAVR stent, which may lead to suboptimal hemodynamic performance. Conversely, a larger STJ size marginally enhances the hemodynamic performance but increases the risk of TAVR leaflet thrombosis. Such analysis can aid pre-procedural planning and minimize the risk of TAVR leaflet thrombosis.

Redo-TAVR Feasibility After SAPIEN 3 Stratified by Implant Depth and Commissural Alignment: A CT Simulation Study

BACKGROUND

Redo-transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) can pin the index transcatheter heart valve leaflets open leading to sinus sequestration and restricting coronary access. The impact of initial implant depth and commissural alignment on redo-TAVR feasibility is unclear. We sought to determine the feasibility of redo-TAVR and coronary access after SAPIEN 3 (S3) TAVR stratified by implant depth and commissural alignment.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with native valve aortic stenosis were evaluated using multidetector computed tomography. S3 TAVR simulations were done at 3 implant depths, sizing per manufacturer recommendation and assuming nominal expansion in all cases. Redo-TAVR was deemed unfeasible based on valve-to-sinotubular junction distance and valve-to-sinus height <2 mm, while the neoskirt plane of the S3 transcatheter heart valve estimated coronary access feasibility.

RESULTS

Overall, 1900 patients (mean age, 80.2±8 years; STS-PROM [Society of Thoracic Surgeons Predicted Risk of Operative Mortality], 3.4%) were included. Redo-TAVR feasibility reduced significantly at shallower initial S3 implant depths (2.3% at 80:20 versus 27.5% at 100:0, P<0.001). Larger S3 sizes reduced redo-TAVR feasibility, but only in patients with a 100:0 implant (P<0.001). Commissural alignment would render redo-TAVR feasible in all patients, assuming the utilization of leaflet modification techniques to reduce the neoskirt height. Coronary access following TAV-in-TAV was affected by both index S3 implant depth and size.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the critical impact of implant depth, commissural alignment, and transcatheter heart valve size in predicting redo-TAVR feasibility. These findings highlight the necessity for individualized preprocedural planning, considering both immediate results and long-term prospects for reintervention as TAVR is increasingly utilized in younger patients with aortic stenosis.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: Current Status and Future Indications

In the past two decades, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has transformed the management of aortic stenosis and has become the standard of care regardless of surgical risk levels. Advances in transcatheter valve design across newer generations, improved imaging, greater operator expertise, and technical enhancements have collectively contributed to increased safety and a decline in procedural complications over this timeframe. The application of TAVR has progressively expanded to include younger patients with lower risks, who have longer life expectancies. This article offers an up-to-date review of the latest innovations in transcatheter delivery systems, devices, and its possible future indications.

Acute Coronary Syndrome Following Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Extending the indication of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) to younger and lower-risk patients naturally results in longer life expectancy and survival rates after the intervention. The longer life expectancy of these patients leads to an increased possibility of future acute coronary events, necessitating the development of effective and appropriate treatment strategies. Acute coronary syndromes (ACS) in patients with previous TAVR procedures present with modified clinical characteristics when compared to the non-TAVR population. In populations with prior TAVR procedures, plaque rupture remains the main cause of ACS. However, unlike the non-TAVR population, there is an increased frequency of nonatherotrombotic mechanisms, like emboli and mechanical obstruction of coronary ostia by valve components. The main observation related to the treatment of ACS TAVR patients is the significantly lower percentage of patients undergoing invasive management. Furthermore, ACS in TAVR patients is associated with poor prognosis, higher long-term mortality rates, and higher incidence of MACE. It is surprising that considering this significant and increasingly recognized issue, there are only a few studies that have investigated ACS after TAVR. The scope of the present review is to address available data about ACS following TAVR, focusing on incidence, timing, mechanism, and causes. We also examined current knowledge regarding optimal invasive treatment and analyzed short and long-term clinical outcomes.

Neo-Commissural Alignment by Withdrawing and Readvancing the Delivery System during Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement with Self-Expanding Prosthesis

Objective

To investigate the feasibility of obtaining neo-commissural alignment by withdrawing and readvancing the delivery system during transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) with self-expanding prosthesis.

Methods

TAVR was performed in five patients with severe aortic valve stenosis by the femoral approach. The delivery catheter was withdrawn and readvanced with the opposite orientation when the Venus-A plus transcatheter heart valve (THV) centre marker was found to be overlapped with or close to the left marker at the aortic annulus level on the fluoroscopic image at the projection of the right and left coronary cusps superimposing. Neo-commissural alignment was evaluated by comparing the aortic computed tomography before TAVR with it after TAVR.

Results

The THV centre marker was overlapped with or close to the right marker at the aortic annulus level on the fluoroscopic image at the projection of the right and left coronary cusps superimposed in all the present five patients after withdrawing and readvancing the delivery system. The commissural angle deviation before vs. post TAVR was 12.3° ± 7.0°. Three of five patients had neo-commissural alignment. Two of the five patients had mild neo-commissural misalignment.

Conclusions

It is possible to obtain the neo-commissural alignment by controlling delivery catheter insertion orientation using the markers on the inflow of the Venus-A plus valve.

Effect of Sinotubular Junction Size on TAVR Leaflet Thrombosis: A Fluid-structure Interaction Analysis

Purpose

TAVR has emerged as a standard approach for treating severe aortic stenosis patients. However, it is associated with several clinical complications, including subclinical leaflet thrombosis characterized by Hypoattenuated Leaflet Thickening (HALT). A rigorous analysis of TAVR device thrombogenicity considering anatomical variations is essential for estimating this risk. Clinicians use the Sinotubular Junction (STJ) diameter for TAVR sizing, but there is a paucity of research on its influence on TAVR devices thrombogenicity.

Methods

A Medtronic Evolut® TAVR device was deployed in three patient models with varying STJ diameters (26, 30, and 34mm) to evaluate its impact on post-deployment hemodynamics and thrombogenicity, employing a novel computational framework combining prosthesis deployment and fluid- structure interaction analysis.

Results

The 30 mm STJ patient case exhibited the best hemodynamic performance: 5.94 mmHg mean transvalvular pressure gradient (TPG), 2.64 cm 2 mean geometric orifice area (GOA), and the lowest mean residence time (T R ) - indicating a reduced thrombogenic risk; 26 mm STJ exhibited a 10 % reduction in GOA and a 35% increase in mean TPG compared to the 30 mm STJ; 34 mm STJ depicted hemodynamics comparable to the 30 mm STJ, but with a 6% increase in T R and elevated platelet stress accumulation.

Conclusion

A smaller STJ size impairs adequate expansion of the TAVR stent, which may lead to suboptimal hemodynamic performance. Conversely, a larger STJ size marginally enhances the hemodynamic performance but increases the risk of TAVR leaflet thrombosis. Such analysis can aid pre- procedural planning and minimize the risk of TAVR leaflet thrombosis.

The Management of Coronary Artery Disease in TAVR Patients

About half of the transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) recipients exhibit some degree of coronary artery disease (CAD), and controversial results have been reported regarding the impact of the presence and severity of CAD on clinical outcomes post-TAVR. In addition to coronary angiography, promising data has been recently reported on the use of both cardiac computed tomography angiography and the functional invasive assessment of coronary lesions whether by FFR or iFR in the work-up pre-TAVR. Despite mitigated available data, percutaneous revascularization of significant coronary lesions has been the routine strategy in TAVR candidates with CAD. Additionally, scarce data exists on the incidence, characteristics and management of coronary events post-TAVR, and increasing interest exists on the potential coronary access challenges in patients requiring coronary angiography/intervention post-TAVR. This review provides an updated overview of the knowledge of CAD in TAVR recipients, focusing on its prevalence, clinical impact, pre- and post-procedural evaluation and management.

Challenges and Future Directions in Redo Aortic Valve Reintervention After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Failure

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is increasingly being performed in younger and lower surgical risk patients. Reintervention for failed transcatheter heart valves will likely increase in the future as younger patients are expected to outlive the initial bioprosthesis. While redo-TAVR has emerged as an attractive and less invasive alternative to surgical explantation (TAVR-explant) to treat transcatheter heart valve failure, it may not be feasible in all patients due to the risk of coronary obstruction and impaired coronary access. Conversely, TAVR-explant can be offered to most patients who are surgical candidates, but the reported outcomes have shown high mortality and morbidity. This review provides the latest evidence, current challenges, and future directions on redo-TAVR and TAVR-explant for transcatheter heart valve failure, to guide aortic valve reintervention and facilitate patients' lifetime management of aortic stenosis.

Impact of different in vitro models on functional performance of the self-expanding transcatheter heart valve

OBJECTIVES

Transcatheter heart valves (THVs) are investigated according to International Organization for Standardization requirements using in vitro heart simulators to evaluate hydrodynamic performance. In contrast to surgical valves, a THV's performance heavily depends on the configuration and shape of the aortic anulus. In International Organization for Standardization regulations, there is no detailed definition for the construction of a compartment in which a THV has to be tested. Therefore, the aim of this in vitro study was to compare different in vitro models for functional testing of THVs.

METHODS

Porcine aortic conduits (23-mm diameter) were implanted in Dacron prostheses and calcified with double-distilled water and calcification buffer at 37°C over 83 million cycles in a Hi-Cycler (durability testing) mimicking nearly 3 patient-years. Hydrodynamic testing of Evolut PRO 26 mm was performed within 3 models (plexiglass, native conduit and calcified conduit; all 23-mm diameter) at a frequency of 64 bpm and different stroke volumes (55-105 ml).

RESULTS

Calcified conduits showed significantly higher mean pressure gradients (MPG) and lower effective orifice areas (EOA) in comparison to native conduits (without THV; P < 0.001). EOA and MPG of Evolut PRO differed depending on the model tested. Calcified conduits resulted in the lowest EOA and highest MPG of the THV compared to plexiglass and the native conduit. Full expansion of the THV was least impaired in the native conduit, while lowest geometric orifice area, lowest minimal internal diameter and highest pin-wheeling index of Evolut PRO were seen in the calcified conduit.

CONCLUSIONS

Full expansion and functional performance of the Evolut PRO THV depends on the configuration of the testing compartment in an in vitro setting.

A case report of virtual reality-guided percutaneous coronary intervention for anomalous origin of right coronary artery chronic total occlusion

Background

Engagement of the guiding catheter (GC) for the coronary artery is sometimes difficult, depending on the patient's anatomy. The most suitable GC before percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in individual cases has not been determined yet.

Case summary

An 81-year-old woman who had a right coronary artery chronic total occlusion had difficulty to engage the catheter for the right coronary artery in the first examination. Virtual reality (VR)-guided GC simulation before PCI using cardiac computed tomography (CT) could overcome the difficulty of GC engagement for the coronary artery and achieve procedure success.

Discussion

VR-guided GC simulation has the potential to solve the catheter approach difficulty for any cardiovascular intervention.

Electrocautery-assisted re-entry to resolve bilateral aorto-ostial chronic total occlusions due to leaflet obstruction following transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Coronary artery obstruction is a rare but life-threatening complication of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). While urgent percutaneous coronary intervention has been described in cases of acute occlusion, little is known about the interventional management of obstruction once it has occurred in the chronic setting. We describe a case in which electrocautery-assisted re-entry was successfully utilized to manage the right coronary artery and left main chronic total occlusion due to leaflet-induced coronary artery obstruction after TAVR.

Commissural alignment in the Evolut TAVR procedure: conventional versus hat marker-guided shaft rotation methods

Background

Coronary cannulation after TAVR is sometimes difficult due to an overlap between native and neo-commissures, especially in Evolut devices with a supra-annular position. The Evolut C-tab corresponds to a neo-commissure, and the hat marker is in a fixed position. Therefore, the orientation of the hat marker can be adjusted to minimise overlaps.

Aims

We investigated whether the HAt marker-guided SHaft rotation method (HASH, stylised as the #rotation method) is effective in facilitating coronary artery access after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) with an Evolut system.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed 95 patients who underwent electrocardiogram-gated cardiac computed tomography after TAVR. In the #rotation method, the hat marker of the delivery catheter was adjusted to face the greater curvature of the descending thoracic aorta in the left anterior oblique view. Its orientation was maintained while the system passed through the aortic arch.

Results

In total, 60 and 35 patients underwent TAVR with the #rotation and non-#rotation methods, respectively. A ±15° angle between the native and neo-commissures was more frequent in the #rotation group (p=0.001). Favourable angles and appropriate frame orientation for access to the left coronary artery were significantly more frequent in the #rotation group than in the non-#rotation group (p<0.001 and p=0.001). Although the #rotation method showed a higher rate of favourable angles and frames in the right coronary artery, statistically significant differences were not found.

Conclusions

The #rotation method is useful for improving commissural post alignment in TAVR with Evolut devices, especially in the ostium of the left coronary artery.

Coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention after transcatheter aortic valve replacement: Feasibility in clinical practice

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE

Coronary artery disease is highly prevalent among patients with severe aortic stenosis who undergo transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). As indications for TAVR are now expanding to younger and lower-risk patients, the need for coronary angiography (CA) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) during their lifetime is expected to increase. The objective of our study was to assess the need for CA and the feasibility of re-engaging the coronary ostia after TAVR.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of 853 consecutive patients undergoing TAVR between August 2007 and December 2020. Patients who needed CA after TAVR were selected. The primary endpoint was the rate of successful coronary ostia cannulation after TAVR.

RESULTS

Of a total of 31 CAs in 28 patients (3.5% of 810 patients analyzed: 57% male, age 77.8±7.0 years) performed after TAVR, 28 (90%) met the primary endpoint and in three cannulation was semi-selective. All failed selective coronary ostia cannulations occurred in patients with a self-expanding valve. Sixteen (52%) also had indication for PCI, which was successfully performed in all. The main indication for CA was non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (35%, n=11). Two cases of primary PCI occurred without delay. There were no complications reported during or after the procedure.

CONCLUSION

Although CA was rarely needed in patients after TAVR, selective diagnostic CA was possible in the overwhelming majority of patients. PCI was performed successfully in all cases, without complications.

Multimodality imaging for patient selection, procedural guidance, and follow-up of transcatheter interventions for structural heart disease: a consensus document of the EACVI Task Force on Interventional Cardiovascular Imaging: part 1: access routes, transcatheter aortic valve implantation, and transcatheter mitral valve interventions

Transcatheter therapies for the treatment of structural heart diseases (SHD) have expanded dramatically over the last years, thanks to the developments and improvements of devices and imaging techniques, along with the increasing expertise of operators. Imaging, in particular echocardiography, is pivotal during patient selection, procedural monitoring, and follow-up. The imaging assessment of patients undergoing transcatheter interventions places demands on imagers that differ from those of the routine evaluation of patients with SHD, and there is a need for specific expertise for those working in the cath lab. In the context of the current rapid developments and growing use of SHD therapies, this document intends to update the previous consensus document and address new advancements in interventional imaging for access routes and treatment of patients with aortic stenosis and regurgitation, and mitral stenosis and regurgitation.

A Case of Valve-in-Valve-in-Valve for Severe Aortic Regurgitation: Is Lifetime Management Upon Us?

BACKGROUND

The incremental use of transcatheter aortic valve replacement will inexorably lead to structural valve deterioration and the need for both a second and third valvular interventions, raising the question of feasibility.

CASE SUMMARY

We present the case of a 76-year-old man that presented with cardiogenic shock refractory to inotropic support. His workup revealed severe bioprosthetic aortic regurgitation 5 years after undergoing transcatheter aortic valve-in-valve implantation. After confirming anatomical suitability with multimodality imaging, he underwent uncomplicated valve-in-valve-in-valve (ViViV) implantation of a 23 mm Edwards S3 Ultra valve with rapid clinical improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

Whether in the form of stenosis or severe regurgitation as in our patient, ViViV is feasible. Careful preprocedural planning and confirmation of anatomical suitability with multimodality imaging are key for success and safety.

TAVR Interventions and Coronary Access: How to Prevent Coronary Occlusion

Due to technological advancements during the past 20 years, transcatheter aortic valve replacements (TAVRs) have significantly improved the treatment of symptomatic and severe aortic stenosis, significantly improving patient outcomes. The continuous evolution of transcatheter valve models, refined imaging planning for enhanced accuracy, and the growing expertise of technicians have collectively contributed to increased safety and procedural success over time. These notable advancements have expanded the scope of TAVR to include patients with lower risk profiles as it has consistently demonstrated more favorable outcomes than surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). As the field progresses, coronary angiography is anticipated to become increasingly prevalent among patients who have previously undergone TAVR, particularly in younger cohorts. It is worth noting that aortic stenosis is often associated with coronary artery disease. While the task of re-accessing coronary artery access following TAVR is challenging, it is generally feasible. In the context of valve-in-valve procedures, several crucial factors must be carefully considered to optimize coronary re-access. To obtain successful coronary re-access, it is essential to align the prosthesis with the native coronary ostia. As part of preventive measures, strategies have been developed to safeguard against coronary obstruction during TAVR. One such approach involves placing wires and non-deployed coronary balloons or scaffolds inside an at-risk coronary artery, a procedure known as chimney stenting. Additionally, the bioprosthetic or native aortic scallops intentional laceration to prevent iatrogenic coronary artery obstruction (BASILICA) procedure offers an effective and safer alternative to prevent coronary artery obstructions. The key objective of our study was to evaluate the techniques and procedures employed to achieve commissural alignment in TAVR, as well as to assess the efficacy and measure the impact on coronary re-access in valve-in-valve procedures.

Management of coronary artery disease in patients with aortic stenosis in the era of transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Aortic stenosis (AS) is a common valve disorder among the elderly, and these patients frequently have concomitant coronary artery disease (CAD). Risk factors for calcific AS are similar to those for CAD. Historically, the treatment of these conditions involved simultaneous surgical replacement of the aortic valve (AV) with coronary artery bypass grafting. Since the advancement of transcatheter AV therapies, there have been tremendous advancements in the safety, efficacy, and feasibility of this procedure with expanding indications. This has led to a paradigm shift in our approach to the patient with AS and concomitant CAD. Data regarding the management of CAD in patients with AS are largely limited to single-center studies or retrospective analyses. This article aims to review available literature around the management of CAD in patients with AS and assist in the current understanding in approaches toward management.

Management of coronary artery disease in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation. A clinical consensus statement from the European Association of Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions in collaboration with the ESC Working Group on Cardiovascular Surgery

Significant coronary artery disease (CAD) is a frequent finding in patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), and the management of these two conditions becomes of particular importance with the extension of the procedure to younger and lower-risk patients. Yet, the preprocedural diagnostic evaluation and the indications for treatment of significant CAD in TAVI candidates remain a matter of debate. In this clinical consensus statement, a group of experts from the European Association of Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions (EAPCI) in collaboration with the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Working Group on Cardiovascular Surgery aims to review the available evidence on the topic and proposes a rationale for the diagnostic evaluation and indications for percutaneous revascularisation of CAD in patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing transcatheter treatment. Moreover, it also focuses on commissural alignment of transcatheter heart valves and coronary re-access after TAVI and redo-TAVI.

Commissural Alignment With ACURATE neo2 Valve in an Unselected Population

BACKGROUND

Commissural alignment has become an important topic in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) because it may improve coronary access, facilitate future valve procedures, and possibly improve valve durability. The efficacy of commissural alignment with ACURATE neo2 has not yet been shown in a large population.

OBJECTIVES

The authors sought to determine the feasibility and success of attempting commissural alignment in an unselected TAVR population treated with the ACURATE neo2 prosthetic heart valve.

METHODS

A total of 170 consecutive patients underwent TAVR with a dedicated implantation technique to align the TAVR valve to the native valve. Using right-left overlap and 3-cusp views, valve orientation was adjusted by rotation of the unexpanded valve at the level of the aortic root. Effectiveness was assessed postprocedure as the degree of misalignment determined by analyzing fluoroscopic valve orientation to corresponding cusp orientation on preprocedural computed tomography. Safety endpoints included mortality, stroke/transient ischemic attack, and additional complications through 30 days.

RESULTS

Of 170 patients, 167 (98.2%) could be analyzed for alignment, and all 170, for safety outcomes. Most patients (97%) had successful alignment (≤ mild misalignment), with 80% with commissural alignment, while the degrees of misalignment were 17% mild, 1.2% moderate, 1.8% severe.

CONCLUSIONS

In this large evaluation of a commissural alignment technique, alignment was achieved in nearly all patients without safety concerns or impact to procedure duration. Commissural alignment appears effective and safe across all patients with this novel technique.

Acute Coronary Syndrome After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (Results from Over 40,000 Patients)

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) encompasses a broad category of presentations from unstable angina to ST-elevation myocardial infarctions. Most patients undergo coronary angiography upon presentation for diagnosis and treatment. However, the ACS management strategy after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) may be complicated because of challenging coronary access. The National Readmission Database was reviewed to identify all patients who were readmitted with ACS within 90 days after TAVI between 2012 and 2018. Their outcomes were described between patients who were readmitted with ACS (ACS group) and without (non-ACS group). A total of 44,653 patients were readmitted within 90 days after TAVI. Among them, 1,416 patients (3.2%) were readmitted with ACS. The ACS group had a higher prevalence of men, diabetes, hypertension, congestive heart failure, peripheral vascular disease, and a history of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). In the ACS group, 101 patients (7.1%) developed cardiogenic shock, whereas 120 patients (8.5%) developed ventricular arrhythmias. Overall, 141 patients (9.9%) in the ACS group died during readmissions (vs 3.0% in the non-ACS group, p <0.001). Among the ACS group, PCI was performed in 33 (5.9%), whereas coronary bypass grafting was performed in 12 (0.82%). The factors associated with ACS readmission included a history of diabetes, congestive heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and PCI, and nonelective TAVI. Coronary artery bypass grafting was an independent factor related to in-hospital mortality during ACS readmission (odds ratio 11.9, 95% confidence interval 2.18 to 65.4, p = 0.004), whereas PCI was not (odds ratio 0.19, 95% confidence interval 0.03 to 1.44, p = 0.11). In conclusion, patients readmitted with ACS have significantly higher mortality compared with those readmitted without ACS. History of PCI is an independent factor associated with ACS after TAVI.

Commissural Alignment and Coronary Access after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVR) is the first therapeutic option for elderly patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis, and indications are steadily expanding to younger patients and subjects with lower surgical risk and longer life expectancy. Commissural alignment between native and transcatheter valves facilitates coronary access after TAVR and is thus considered a procedural goal, allowing long-term management of coronary artery disease. Moreover, commissural alignment may potentially have a positive impact on transvalvular hemodynamic and valve durability. This review focus on technical hints to achieve commissural alignment and current evidence for different transcatheter aortic valves.

Prosthesis Tailoring for Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has risen over the past 20 years as a safe and effective alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement for treatment of severe aortic stenosis, and is now a well-established and recommended treatment option in suitable patients irrespective of predicted risk of mortality after surgery. Studies of numerous devices, either newly developed or reiterations of previous prostheses, have been accruing. We hereby review TAVI devices, with a focus on commercially available options, and aim to present a guide for prosthesis tailoring according to patient-related anatomical and clinical factors that may favor particular designs.

Definition of trAnscatheter heart Valve orIeNtation in biCuspId aortic valve: The DA VINCI pilot study

Objectives

To assess the impact of conventional transcatheter heart valve (THV) commissural alignment techniques on THV/coronary overlap and coronary access (CA) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in bicuspid aortic valve (BAV).

Background

Specific Evolut Pro/Pro + and Acurate Neo2 THV orientations are associated with reduced neo-commissural overlap with coronary ostia in tricuspid aortic anatomy. Whether standard orientation techniques are effective also in the setting of BAV anatomy has not been studied.

Methods

The DA VINCI (Definition of trAnscatheter aortic Valve orIeNtation in biCuspId aortic valve) pilot study is a prospective registry enrolling consecutive patients with severe BAV stenosis undergoing TAVR with last generation supra-annular tall-frame THVs implanted with a cusp overlap view-based commissural alignment. Patients underwent pre- and post-TAVR computed tomography (CT) and coronary angiography. The study endpoint was the rate of favorable THV/coronary overlap, defined as an angle > 40° between the THV commissural post and coronary ostia. Other endpoints were the rates of successful THV alignment with respect to the raphe and of selective CA after TAVR. Moreover, different virtual THV alignment models were tested to identify which one would produce the lower degree of THV/coronary overlap.

Results

Thirty-four patients with type 1 BAV with right-left raphe undergoing TAVR (23 with Evolut Pro/Pro + and 11 with Acurate Neo2) were included. At pre-TAVR CT, moderate/severe cusp asymmetry was found in 50% of patients, severe coronary ostia eccentricity was observed in 47.1% for the RCA vs. 8.8% for the LCA (P < 0.007). Correct TVH orientation was achieved in 29 cases. At post-TAVR CT, optimal THV alignment/mild misalignment to the raphe was observed in 86.2%, but a moderate/severe overlap with the coronaries was seen in 13.7% for the RCA and 44.8% for the LCA (P = 0.019). After TAVR, selective RCA cannulation was possible in 82.8% vs. 75.9% for the LCA (P = 0.74), while combined selective CA of both coronaries was possible in less than two-thirds of the patients. Virtual THV alignment in the coronary ostia overlap view assuming a hypothetical circular THV expansion would produce an optimal THV/coronary overlap in almost 90% of cases.

Conclusion

Given cusp asymmetry and coronary ostia eccentricity of BAV combined with potential THV asymmetrical expansion, conventional commissural alignment techniques are associated with higher rates of THV misalignment and of moderate/severe neo-commissure overlap with the coronary ostia as compared to tricuspid aortic stenosis, resulting in lower rates of selective CA after TAVR. A modified THV orientation technique based on the coronary ostia overlap view might be preferable in BAV patients.

[How to select the best device using pre-TAVR CT scan]

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement or TAVR has become the gold standard for the treatment of symptomatic and severe aortic valve stenosis in elderly patients. Although the role of computed tomography imaging was initially limited to the determination of the optimal vascular approach, it has progressively matured to become the pilar of TAVR work-up while being standardized by consensus conferences. The list of evaluated elements includes aortic annulus diameter, the optimal projection curve, the number of aortic leaflets, the severity and localization of calcifications, coronary ostial height, membranous septum length and aortic angulation. The proper and cautious evaluation of these elements may help evaluating the risk for the main periprocedural complications such as coronary obstruction, annular rupture, permanent pacemaker implantation or procedural failure and selecting the optimal transcatheter heart valve and its size, according to the patient's specific anatomy. In this review, we detail how the evaluation of these parameters may impact the selection of the transcatheter heart valve.

Personalised Treatment in Aortic Stenosis: A Patient-Tailored Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Approach

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVI) has become a game changer in the management of severe aortic stenosis shifting the concept from inoperable or high-risk patients to intermediate or low surgical-risk individuals. Among devices available nowadays, there is no clear evidence that one device is better than the other or that one device is suitable for all patients. The selection of the optimal TAVI valve for every patient represents a challenging process for clinicians, given a large number of currently available devices. Consequently, understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each valve and personalising the valve selection based on patient-specific clinical and anatomical characteristics is paramount. This review article aims to both analyse the available devices in the presence of specific clinical and anatomic features and offer guidance to select the most suitable valve for a given patient.

Lifetime Management of Aortic Stenosis: Transcatheter Versus Surgical Treatment for Young and Low-Risk Patients

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement is now indicated across all risk categories of patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis and has been proposed as first line option for the majority of patients >74 years old. However, median age of patients enrolled in the transcatheter aortic valve replacement low-risk trials is 74 years and transcatheter aortic valve replacement has never been systematically investigated in young low risk patients. Although the long-term data in surgical aortic valve replacement in young patients (age <75) are well known, such data remain lacking in transcatheter aortic valve replacement. In the absence of clear guideline recommendations in patients with challenging anatomies (eg, hostile calcium, bicuspid), it is important to know the potential advantages and disadvantages of each treatment and to consider how they might integrate with each other in the lifetime management of such patients. In this review, we discuss current outstanding issues on the management of severe aortic stenosis from a lifetime management perspective, particularly in terms of initial intervention and future reinterventions.

Coronary access following ACURATE neo implantation for transcatheter aortic valve-in-valve implantation: Ex vivo analysis in patient-specific anatomies

Background

Coronary access after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) with supra-annular self-expandable valves may be challenging or un-feasible. There is little data concerning coronary access following transcatheter aortic valve-in-valve implantation (ViV-TAVI) for degenerated surgical bioprosthesis.

Aims

To evaluate the feasibility and challenge of coronary access after ViV-TAVI with the supra-annular self-expandable ACURATE neo valve.

Materials and methods

Sixteen patients underwent ViV-TAVI with the ACURATE neo valve. Post-procedural computed tomography (CT) was used to create 3D-printed life-sized patient-specific models for bench-testing of coronary cannulation. Primary endpoint was feasibility of diagnostic angiography and PCI. Secondary endpoints included incidence of challenging cannulation for both diagnostic catheters (DC) and guiding catheters (GC). The association between challenging cannulations with aortic and transcatheter/surgical valve geometry was evaluated using pre and post-procedural CT scans.

Results

Diagnostic angiography and PCI were feasible for 97 and 95% of models respectively. All non-feasible procedures occurred in ostia that underwent prophylactic “chimney” stenting. DC cannulation was challenging in 17% of models and was associated with a narrower SoV width (30 vs. 35 mm, p < 0.01), STJ width (28 vs. 32 mm, p < 0.05) and shorter STJ height (15 vs. 17 mm, p < 0.05). GC cannulation was challenging in 23% of models and was associated with narrower STJ width (28 vs. 32 mm, p < 0.05), smaller transcatheter-to-coronary distance (5 vs. 9.2 mm, p < 0.05) and a worse coronary-commissural overlap angle (14.3° vs. 25.6^o, p < 0.01). Advanced techniques to achieve GC cannulation were required in 22/64 (34%) of cases.

Conclusion

In this exploratory bench analysis, diagnostic angiography and PCI was feasible in almost all cases following ViV-TAVI with the ACURATE neo valve. Prophylactic coronary stenting, higher implantation, narrower aortic sinus dimensions and commissural misalignment were associated with an increased challenge of coronary cannulation.

Rationale, Definitions, Techniques, and Outcomes of Commissural Alignment in TAVR: From the ALIGN-TAVR Consortium

Given the expanding indications of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in younger patients with longer life expectancies, the ability to perform postprocedural coronary access represents a priority in their lifetime management. A growing body of evidence suggests that commissural (and perhaps coronary) alignment in TAVR impacts coronary access and valve hemodynamics as well as coronary flow and access after redo-TAVR. Recent studies have provided modified delivery system insertion and rotation techniques to obtain commissural alignment with available transcatheter heart valve devices. Moreover, patient-specific preprocedural planning and postprocedural imaging tools have been developed to facilitate and evaluate commissural alignment. Future efforts should aim to refine transcatheter heart valve and delivery system designs to make neocommissural alignment easier and more reproducible. The aim of this review is to present an in-depth insight of commissural alignment in TAVR, including its rationale, standardized definitions, technical steps, outcomes, and future directions.

Evolving Devices and Material in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: What to Use and for Whom

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has revolutionized the treatment of aortic stenosis, providing a viable alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) for patients deemed to be at prohibitive surgical risk, but also for selected patients at intermediate or low surgical risk. Nonetheless, there still exist uncertainties regarding the optimal management of patients undergoing TAVR. The selection of the optimal bioprosthetic valve for each patient represents one of the most challenging dilemmas for clinicians, given the large number of currently available devices. Limited follow-up data from landmark clinical trials comparing TAVR with SAVR, coupled with the typically elderly and frail population of patients undergoing TAVR, has led to inconclusive data on valve durability. Recommendations about the use of one device over another in given each patient’s clinical and procedural characteristics are largely based on expert consensus. This review aims to evaluate the available evidence on the performance of different devices in the presence of specific clinical and anatomic features, with a focus on patient, procedural, and device features that have demonstrated a relevant impact on the risk of poor hemodynamic valve performance and adverse clinical events.

Coronary access after transcatheter aortic valve replacement in bicuspid versus tricuspid aortic stenosis

BACKGROUND

It is unknown whether there are differences in coronary access after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) between bicuspid and tricuspid anatomy.

AIMS

Our aim was to investigate coronary access after TAVR using a self-expanding transcatheter heart valve (THV) in bicuspid versus tricuspid aortic valves (BAV vs TAV), based on CT simulation.

METHODS

A total of 86 type 0 BAV, 70 type 1 BAV, and 132 TAV patients were included. If the coronary ostium faced the sealed parts of the THV or the tilted-up native leaflet (NL), this was defined as THV- or NL-related challenging coronary access, respectively. If coaxial engagement was not allowed due to interference from the unwrapped frame, THV-related complex coronary access was defined.

RESULTS

The incidence of THV-related challenging coronary access was 21.2% for the left coronary artery (LCA) and 17.7% for the right coronary artery (RCA), and type 0 BAV patients encountered fewer THV-related challenging LCA access than their TAV counterparts (OR 0.42, 95% CI: 0.20-0.89). NL-related challenging coronary access was observed in 3.1% for LCA and 1.4% for RCA, and THV-related complex coronary access was identified in 5.9% for LCA and 17.0% for RCA; however, no significant differences were found among groups. The proportion of optimal fluoroscopic viewing angles suitable for guiding LCA engagement was similar among groups (64.0% vs 70.0% vs 62.1%), but those suitable for guiding RCA engagement were significantly higher in the type 0 BAV group (31.4% vs 4.3% vs 9.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

Coronary access may be challenging or complex in a significant proportion of both BAV and TAV patients after TAVR. Type 0 BAV anatomy may be more favourable for post-TAVR coronary access.

Evolving Indications of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement—Where Are We Now, and Where Are We Going

Indications for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) have steadily increased over the last decade since the first trials including inoperable or very high risk patients. Thus, TAVR is now the most common treatment of aortic valve stenosis in elderly patients (vs. surgical aortic valve replacement -SAVR-). In this review, we summarize the current indications of TAVR and explore future directions in which TAVR indications can expand.

Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Pre-TAVR: Current State of the Evidence

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review intends to give an up-to-date overview of the current state of evidence in the treatment of coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), focusing on percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) pre-TAVR.

RECENT FINDINGS

The recently published ACTIVATION trial is the 1st randomized trial comparing coronary revascularization (PCI) versus medical treatment in patients with significant CAD undergoing TAVR. With the caveat of several major limitations of the trial, the results of this study raised the question about the appropriateness of the common practice to routinely revascularize coronary stenosis before TAVR. Aortic valve stenosis is the most common valvular heart disease among the elderly and it often co-occurs with CAD. TAVR is increasingly considered an alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement not only in the elderly population but also in younger and lower-risk patients. The impact of co-existing CAD on clinical outcomes as well as the optimal timing of PCI in TAVR candidates is still unclear and the subject of ongoing randomized trials. Meanwhile, it is common practice in many centers to routinely perform invasive coronary angiography and PCI for significant coronary disease as part of the TAVR workup. While computed tomography angiography has emerged as a possible alternative to the invasive coronary angiography in patients with low pre-test probability for CAD, the value of functional invasive assessment of coronary lesions in the pre-TAVR setting has still to be clarified. Also, there is an increasing interest in the clinical relevance and optimal management of the potentially challenging coronary access post-TAVR, requiring further research.

The Technological Basis of a Balloon-Expandable TAVR System: Non-occlusive Deployment, Anchorage in the Absence of Calcification and Polymer Leaflets

Leaflet durability and costs restrict contemporary trans-catheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) largely to elderly patients in affluent countries. TAVR that are easily deployable, avoid secondary procedures and are also suitable for younger patients and non-calcific aortic regurgitation (AR) would significantly expand their global reach. Recognizing the reduced need for post-implantation pacemakers in balloon-expandable (BE) TAVR and the recent advances with potentially superior leaflet materials, a trans-catheter BE-system was developed that allows tactile, non-occlusive deployment without rapid pacing, direct attachment of both bioprosthetic and polymer leaflets onto a shape-stabilized scallop and anchorage achieved by plastic deformation even in the absence of calcification. Three sizes were developed from nickel-cobalt-chromium MP35N alloy tubes: Small/23 mm, Medium/26 mm and Large/29 mm. Crimp-diameters of valves with both bioprosthetic (sandwich-crosslinked decellularized pericardium) and polymer leaflets (triblock polyurethane combining siloxane and carbonate segments) match those of modern clinically used BE TAVR. Balloon expansion favors the wing-structures of the stent thereby creating supra-annular anchors whose diameter exceeds the outer diameter at the waist level by a quarter. In the pulse duplicator, polymer and bioprosthetic TAVR showed equivalent fluid dynamics with excellent EOA, pressure gradients and regurgitation volumes. Post-deployment fatigue resistance surpassed ISO requirements. The radial force of the helical deployment balloon at different filling pressures resulted in a fully developed anchorage profile of the valves from two thirds of their maximum deployment diameter onwards. By combining a unique balloon-expandable TAVR system that also caters for non-calcific AR with polymer leaflets, a powerful, potentially disruptive technology for heart valve disease has been incorporated into a TAVR that addresses global needs. While fulfilling key prerequisites for expanding the scope of TAVR to the vast number of patients of low- to middle income countries living with rheumatic heart disease the system may eventually also bring hope to patients of high-income countries presently excluded from TAVR for being too young.

Balloon-Expandable Valve for Treatment of Evolut Valve Failure: Implications on Neoskirt Height and Leaflet Overhang

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to determine the degree of Evolut (Medtronic) leaflet pinning, diameter expansion, leaflet overhang, and performance at different implant depths of the balloon-expandable Sapien 3 (S3, Edwards Lifesciences LLC) transcatheter heart valve (THV) within the Evolut THV.

BACKGROUND

Preservation of coronary access and flow is a major factor when considering the treatment of failed Evolut THVs.

METHODS

An in vitro study was performed with 20-, 23-, 26-, and 29-mm S3 THVs deployed within 23-, 26-, 29-, and 34-mm Evolut R THVs, respectively. The S3 outflow was positioned at various depths at node 4, 5, and 6 of the Evolut R. Neoskirt height, leaflet overhang, performance, and Evolut R valve housing diameter expansion were assessed under physiological conditions as per ISO 5840-3 standard.

RESULTS

The neoskirt height for the Evolut R was shorter when the S3 outflow was positioned at node 4 compared with node 6 (node 4 height for 23 mm = 16.3 mm, 26 mm = 17.1 mm, 29 mm = 18.3 mm, and 34 mm = 19.9 mm vs node 6 height for 23 mm = 23.9 mm, 26 mm = 23.4 mm, 29 mm = 24.7 mm, and 34 mm = 27 mm Evolut R). All configurations exhibited acceptable hydrodynamic performance irrespective of the degree of leaflet overhang, except the 29-mm S3 implanted in 34-mm Evolut R at node 4 (regurgitant fraction >20%). The valve housing radius of the index Evolut R increased when the S3 was implanted, with the increase ranging from 0 to 2.5 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

Placement of the S3 at a lower implant position within an index Evolut R reduces the neoskirt height with no significant compromise to S3 valve function despite a higher degree of leaflet overhang. Low S3 implantation may facilitate future coronary access after redo transcatheter aortic valve replacement.