Development of a Risk Score to Predict New Pacemaker Implantation After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Machine learning for pacemaker implantation prediction after TAVI using multimodal imaging data

Pacemaker implantation (PMI) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a common complication. While computed tomography (CT) scan data are known predictors of PMI, no machine learning (ML) model integrating CT with clinical, ECG, and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) data has been proposed. This study investigates the contribution of ML methods to predict PMI after TAVI, with a focus on the role of CT imaging data. A retrospective analysis was conducted on a cohort of 520 patients who underwent TAVI. Recursive feature elimination with SHAP values was used to select key variables from clinical, ECG, TTE, and CT data. Six ML models, including Support Vector Machines (SVM), were trained using these selected variables. The model's performance was evaluated using AUC-ROC, F1 score, and accuracy metrics. The PMI rate was 18.8%. The best-performing model achieved an AUC-ROC of 92.1% ± 4.7, an F1 score of 71.8% ± 9.9, and an accuracy of 87.9% ± 4.7 using 22 variables, 9 of which were CT-based. Membranous septum measurements and their dynamic variations were critical predictors. Our ML model provides robust PMI predictions, enabling personalized risk assessments. The model is implemented online for broad clinical use.

Recovery rate from conduction disorders in patients with permanent pacemaker implantation after transcatheter aortic valve implantation

BACKGROUNDS

Permanent pacemaker implantation (PPMI) is one of the greatest disadvantages of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). To seek the predictors and clinical impacts of PPMI and investigate the recovery rate from conduction disorders.

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed data from 745 consecutive patients who underwent TAVI for severe aortic stenosis from November 2013 to July 2022. The ventricular pacing (VP) rate was recorded at 1 and 6 months after PPMI and the recovery from conduction disorders was defined as the VP rate <1%.

RESULTS

Postoperative PPMI was performed in 7.1% (53/745) of patients. Balloon predilatation was significantly frequent in the PPMI (-) group (52.8% (28/53) vs 80.6% (558/692); p<0.001) and the oversizing ratio was significantly greater in the PPMI (+) group (11.8%±10.1% vs 9.1%±9.7%; p=0.035). Freedom from rehospitalisation due to heart failure rate was significantly higher in the PPMI (-) group (p=0.032). In patients with postoperative PPMI, recovery from conduction disorders was observed in 17.0% and 27.9% of patients at 1 and 6 months, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Recovery from conduction disorders occurred frequently. Avoidance of oversizing and extension of observation time may reduce the need for PPMI after TAVI.

Outcomes and treatment strategy of transcatheter aortic valve replacement with balloon-expandable valve in borderline-size annulus

BACKGROUND

Candidates for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) occasionally have a "borderline-size" aortic annulus between 2 transcatheter heart valve sizes, based on the manufacturer's sizing chart. Data on TAVR outcomes in such patients are limited.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 1816 patients who underwent transfemoral-TAVR with balloon-expandable valve (BEV) at our institution between 2016 and 2020. We divided patients into borderline and non-borderline groups based on computed tomography-derived annular measurements and compared outcomes. Furthermore, we analyzed procedural characteristics and compared outcomes between the smaller- and larger-valve strategies in patients with borderline-size annulus.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 23.3 months, there was no significant difference between the borderline (n = 310, 17.0 %) and non-borderline (n = 1506) groups in mortality (17.3 % vs. 19.5 %; hazard ratio [HR] = 0.86 [95% CI = 0.62-1.20], p = 0.39), major adverse cardiac/cerebrovascular events (MACCE: death/myocardial infarction/stroke, 21.2 % vs. 21.5 %; HR = 0.97 [0.71-1.32], p = 0.85), paravalvular leak (PVL: mild 21.8 % vs. 20.6 %, p = 0.81; moderate 0 % vs. 1.2 %; p = 0.37), or mean gradient (12.9 ± 5.8 vs. 12.6 ± 5.2 mmHg, p = 0.69) at 1 year. There was no significant difference between the larger-(n = 113) and smaller-valve(n = 197) subgroups in mortality (23.7 % vs. 15.2 %; HR = 1.57 [0.89-2.77], p = 0.12), MACCE (28.1 % vs. 18.4 %; HR = 1.52 [0.91-2.54], p = 0.11), mild PVL (13.3 % vs. 25.9 %; p = 0.12), or mean gradient (12.3 ± 4.5 vs. 13.6 ± 5.3 mmHg, p = 0.16); however, the rate of permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) was higher in the larger-valve subgroup (15.9 % vs. 2.6 %, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Borderline-size annulus is not associated with higher risk of adverse outcomes after BEV-TAVR. However, the larger-valve strategy for borderline-size annulus is associated with higher PPI risk, suggesting a greater risk of injury to the conduction system.

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.

High-Degree Heart Block During Noncardiac Surgery Soon After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: A Case Report

Patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) as a bridge to noncardiac surgery have improved outcomes. Older clinical trials concluded no increased risk of performing noncardiac surgery within 30 days of the TAVR procedure. Emerging evidence suggests patients with preexisting conduction abnormalities may require additional intervention to proceed safely with noncardiac surgery. More data are needed to clarify this clinical situation, especially for the anesthesiologist whose job is to mitigate risk for these patients. We present a patient who received a TAVR and suffered associated complications during subsequent surgery. We further discuss preventative measures and perioperative considerations for this patient population.

Electrocardiogram-based prediction of conduction disturbances after transcatheter aortic valve replacement with convolutional neural network

Aims

Permanent pacemaker implantation and left bundle branch block are common complications after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and are associated with impaired prognosis. This study aimed to develop an artificial intelligence (AI) model for predicting conduction disturbances after TAVR using pre-procedural 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) images.

Methods and results

We collected pre-procedural 12-lead ECGs of patients who underwent TAVR at West China Hospital between March 2016 and March 2022. A hold-out testing set comprising 20% of the sample was randomly selected. We developed an AI model using a convolutional neural network, trained it using five-fold cross-validation and tested it on the hold-out testing cohort. We also developed and validated an enhanced model that included additional clinical features. After applying exclusion criteria, we included 1354 ECGs of 718 patients in the study. The AI model predicted conduction disturbances in the hold-out testing cohort with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.764, accuracy of 0.743, F1 score of 0.752, sensitivity of 0.876, and specificity of 0.624, based solely on pre-procedural ECG images. The performance was better than the Emory score (AUC = 0.704), as well as the logistic (AUC = 0.574) and XGBoost (AUC = 0.520) models built with previously identified high-risk ECG patterns. After adding clinical features, there was an increase in the overall performance with an AUC of 0.779, accuracy of 0.774, F1 score of 0.776, sensitivity of 0.794, and specificity of 0.752.

Conclusion

Artificial intelligence-enhanced ECGs may offer better predictive value than traditionally defined high-risk ECG patterns.

Ratio of left ventricular outflow tract area to aortic annulus area and complete atrioventricular block after transcatheter aortic valve replacement for aortic stenosis

BACKGROUND

Mechanical compression of cardiac conduction system by transcatheter heart valves leads to complete atrioventricular block (CAVB) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Bulging of ventricular septum in the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) may be associated with greater compression of conduction system, leading to irreversible CAVB.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the association of ventricular septal bulging with TAVR-related CAVB and permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI).

METHODS

Among 294 consecutive patients with severe aortic stenosis who underwent TAVR between July 2017 and February 2023, 271 were included in the analysis. As a quantitative evaluation of bulging of the ventricular septum, the ratio of LVOT area to aortic annulus area (L/A ratio) was measured at the systolic phase of computed tomography images.

RESULTS

TAVR-related CAVB occurred in 64 patients (23.6%). Twenty-eight patients (10.3%) required PPI. The optimal thresholds of L/A ratio for predicting TAVR-related CAVB and PPI were 1.0181 and 0.985, respectively. Patients with less than the cut-off values had higher rate of TAVR-related CAVB and PPI than those above (28.3% vs 13.1%, p = 0.0063; 14.7% vs 4.4%, p = 0.0077, respectively). A multivariate analysis showed that L/A ratio < 1.0181 was an independent predictor of TAVR-related CAVB (odds ratio [OR] 2.65, p = 0.011), in addition to prior right bundle branch block (OR 3.76, p = 0.0005), use of a self-expanding valve (OR 1.99, p = 0.030), and short membranous septum length (OR 0.96, p = 0.037). Only L/A ratio < 0.985 was independently associated with PPI (OR 3.70, p = 0.011).

CONCLUSION

Low L/A ratio is a predictor of TAVR-related CAVB and PPI.

Risk Assessment of Permanent Pacemaker Implantation After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in Patients With Preexisting Right Bundle Branch Block

Preexisting right bundle branch block (RBBB) is the strongest predictor for permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). However, the risk assessment for new PPI and effective procedural strategy for preventing new PPI in patients with preexisting RBBB are still unclear. This study stratified the new PPI risk after TAVI and investigated the impact of implantation strategy in a preexisting RBBB cohort. We analyzed 237 patients with preexisting RBBB who underwent TAVI. The primary endpoint was the incidence of new PPI. Multivariate analyses investigating predictors for new PPI were performed. The overall PPI rate was 33.3%. Significant baseline predictors for new PPI were combination of RBBB, left anterior or posterior fascicular block, and first-degree atrioventricular block (odds ratio [OR] 2.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09 to 5.04), high calcium volume of noncoronary cusp (OR 2.08, 95% CI 1.05 to 4.10), and membranous septum (MS) length <2 mm (OR 2.02, 95% CI 1.09 to 3.75) in the univariate analysis and MS length <2 mm (OR 2.25, 95% CI 1.06 to 4.82) in the multivariate analysis. On the multivariate analysis including procedural variables, predilatation (OR 2.41, 95% CI 1.01 to 5.83), self-expanding valves (Corevalve, Evolut R, and Evolut Pro/Pro+; Medtronic Inc., Minneapolis, Minnesota) or mechanical expanding valves (Lotus/Lotus Edge; Boston Scientifics, Marlborough, Massachusetts) (OR 3.00, 95% CI 1.31 to 6.91), and implantation depth > MS length (OR 4.27, 95% CI 1.81 to 10.08) were significantly associated with new PPI. The incidence of new PPI increased according to the number of baseline predictors (0: 20.9%, 1: 34.3%, and ≥2: 52.0%) and procedural predictors (0: 3.7%, 1: 20.9%, 2: 40.5%, and 3: 60.0%). New PPI risk in a preexisting RBBB subset could be stratified by baseline factors. Device selection and implantation strategy considering MS length could prevent new PPI even in these high-risk population.

PRIME score for prediction of permanent pacemaker implantation after transcatheter aortic valve replacement

OBJECTIVES

We sought to produce a simple scoring system that can be applied at clinical visits before transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) to stratify the risk of permanent pacemaker (PPM) after the procedure.

BACKGROUND

Atrioventricular block is a known complication of TAVR. Current models for predicting the risk of PPM after TAVR are not designed to be applied clinically to assist with preprocedural planning.

METHODS

Patients undergoing TAVR at the University of Colorado were split into a training cohort for the development of a predictive model, and a testing cohort for model validation. Stepwise and binary logistic regressions were performed on the training cohort to produce a predictive model. Beta coefficients from the binary logistic regression were used to create a simple scoring system for predicting the need for PPM implantation. Scores were then applied to the validation cohort to assess predictive accuracy.

RESULTS

Patients undergoing TAVR from 2013 to 2019 were analyzed: with 483 included in the training cohort and 123 included in the validation cohort. The need for a pacemaker was associated with five preprocedure variables in the training cohort: PR interval > 200 ms, Right bundle branch block, valve-In-valve procedure, prior Myocardial infarction, and self-Expandable valve. The PRIME score was developed using these clinical features, and was highly accurate for predicting PPM in both the training and model validation cohorts (area under the curve 0.804 and 0.830 in the model training and validation cohorts, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The PRIME score is a simple and accurate preprocedural tool for predicting the need for PPM implantation after TAVR.

Novel predictors of permanent pacemaker implantation following transcatheter aortic valve replacement

BACKGROUND

Conduction and rhythm abnormalities requiring permanent pacemakers (PPM) are short-term complications following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), and their clinical outcomes remain conflicting. Potential novel predictors of post-TAVR PPM, like QRS duration, QTc prolongation, and supraventricular arrhythmias, have been poorly studied.

AIM

To evaluate the effects of baseline nonspecific interventricular conduction delay and supraventricular arrhythmia on post-TAVR PPM requirement and determine the impact of PPM implantation on clinical outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study that identified patients with TAVR between January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2019. The group was dichotomized into those with post-TAVR PPM and those without PPM. Both groups were followed for one year.

RESULTS

Out of the 357 patients that met inclusion criteria, the mean age was 80 years, 188 (52.7%) were male, and 57 (16%) had a PPM implantation. Baseline demographics, valve type, and cardiovascular risk factors were similar except for type II diabetes mellitus (DM), which was more prevalent in the PPM cohort (59.6% vs 40.7%; P = 0.009). The PPM cohort had a significantly higher rate of pre-procedure right bundle branch block, prolonged QRS > 120 ms, prolonged QTc > 470 ms, and supraventricular arrhythmias. There was a consistently significant increase in the odds ratio (OR) of PPM implantation for every 20 ms increase in the QRS duration above 100 ms: QRS 101-120 [OR: 2.44; confidence intervals (CI): 1.14-5.25; P = 0.022], QRS 121-140 (OR: 3.25; CI: 1.32-7.98; P = 0.010), QRS 141-160 (OR: 6.98; CI: 3.10-15.61; P < 0.001). After model adjustment for baseline risk factors, the OR remained significant for type II DM (aOR: 2.16; CI: 1.18-3.94; P = 0.012), QRS > 120 (aOR: 2.18; CI: 1.02-4.66; P = 0.045) and marginally significant for supraventricular arrhythmias (aOR: 1.82; CI: 0.97-3.42; P = 0.062). The PPM cohort had a higher adjusted OR of heart failure (HF) hospitalization (aOR: 2.2; CI: 1.1-4.3; P = 0.022) and nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI) (aOR: 3.9; CI: 1.1-14; P = 0.031) without any difference in mortality (aOR: 1.1; CI: 0.5-2.7; P = 0.796) at one year.

CONCLUSION

Pre-TAVR type II DM and QRS duration > 120, regardless of the presence of bundle branch blocks, are predictors of post-TAVR PPM. At 1-year post-TAVR, patients with PPM have higher odds of HF hospitalization and MI.

Prospective validation of a risk score to predict pacemaker implantation after transcatheter aortic valve replacement

INTRODUCTION

The need for pacemaker is a common complication after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). We previously described the Emory Risk Score (ERS) to predict the need for new pacemaker implant (PPM) after TAVR. Metrics included in the score are a history of syncope, pre-existing RBBB, QRS duration ≥140 ms, and prosthesis oversizing ≥16%. To prospectively validate the previously described risk score.

METHODS

We prospectively evaluated all patients without pre-existing pacemakers, ICD, or pre-existing indications for pacing undergoing TAVR with the Edwards SAPIEN 3 prosthesis at our institution from March 2019 to December 2020 (n = 661). Patients were scored prospectively; however, results were blinded from clinical decision-making. The primary endpoint was PPM at 30 days after TAVR. Performance of the ERS was evaluated using logistic regression, a calibration curve to prior performance, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 48 patients (7.3%) had PPM after TAVR. A higher ERS predicted an increased likelihood of PPM (OR 2.61, 95% CI: 2.05-3.25 per point, p < 0.001). There was good correlation between observed and expected values on the calibration curve (slope = 1.04, calibration at large = 0.001). The area under the ROC curve was 0.81 (95% CI [0.74-0.88], p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The ERS prospectively predicted the need for PPM in a serial, real-world cohort of patients undergoing TAVR with a balloon-expandable prosthesis, confirming findings previously described in retrospective cohorts. Notably, the prospective performance of the score was comparable with that of the initial cohorts. The risk score could serve as a framework for preprocedural risk stratification for PPM after TAVR.

A prediction model for permanent pacemaker implantation after transcatheter aortic valve replacement

BACKGROUND

This study aims to develop a post-procedural risk prediction model for permanent pacemaker implantation (PPMI) in patients treated with transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

METHODS

336 patients undergoing TAVR at a single institution were included for model derivation. For primary analysis, multivariate logistic regression model was used to evaluate predictors and a risk score system was devised based on the prediction model. For secondary analysis, a Cox proportion hazard model was performed to assess characteristics associated with the time from TAVR to PPMI. The model was validated internally via bootstrap and externally using an independent cohort.

RESULTS

48 (14.3%) patients in the derivation set had PPMI after TAVR. Prior right bundle branch block (RBBB, OR: 10.46; p < 0.001), pre-procedural aortic valve area (AVA, OR: 1.41; p = 0.004) and post- to pre-procedural AVA ratio (OR: 1.72; p = 0.043) were identified as independent predictors for PPMI. AUC was 0.7 and 0.71 in the derivation and external validation set. Prior RBBB (HR: 5.07; p < 0.001), pre-procedural AVA (HR: 1.33; p = 0.001), post-procedural AVA to prosthetic nominal area ratio (HR: 0.02; p = 0.039) and post- to pre-procedural troponin-T difference (HR: 1.72; p = 0.017) are independently associated with time to PPMI.

CONCLUSIONS

The post-procedural prediction model achieved high discriminative power and accuracy for PPMI. The risk score system was constructed and validated, providing an accessible tool in clinical setting regarding the Chinese population.

Prediction of permanent pacemaker implantation after transcatheter aortic valve replacement: The role of machine learning

BACKGROUND

Atrioventricular block requiring permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation is an important complication of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Application of machine learning could potentially be used to predict pre-procedural risk for PPM.

AIM

To apply machine learning to be used to predict pre-procedural risk for PPM.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 1200 patients who underwent TAVR (January 2014-December 2017) was performed. 964 patients without prior PPM were included for a 30-d analysis and 657 patients without PPM requirement through 30 d were included for a 1-year analysis. After the exclusion of variables with near-zero variance or ≥ 50% missing data, 167 variables were included in the random forest gradient boosting algorithm (GBM) optimized using 5-fold cross-validations repeated 10 times. The receiver operator curve (ROC) for the GBM model and PPM risk score models were calculated to predict the risk of PPM at 30 d and 1 year.

RESULTS

Of 964 patients included in the 30-d analysis without prior PPM, 19.6% required PPM post-TAVR. The mean age of patients was 80.9 ± 8.7 years. 42.1 % were female. Of 657 patients included in the 1-year analysis, the mean age of the patients was 80.7 ± 8.2. Of those, 42.6% of patients were female and 26.7% required PPM at 1-year post-TAVR. The area under ROC to predict 30-d and 1-year risk of PPM for the GBM model (0.66 and 0.72) was superior to that of the PPM risk score (0.55 and 0.54) with a P value < 0.001.

CONCLUSION

The GBM model has good discrimination and calibration in identifying patients at high risk of PPM post-TAVR.

ESC/EACTS vs. ACC/AHA guidelines for the management of severe aortic stenosis

Aortic stenosis (AS) is a serious and complex condition, for which optimal management continues to evolve rapidly. An understanding of current clinical practice guidelines is critical to effective patient care and shared decision-making. This state of the art review of the 2021 European Society of Cardiology/European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery Guidelines and 2020 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Guidelines compares their recommendations for AS based on the evidence to date. The European and American guidelines were generally congruent with the exception of three key distinctions. First, the European guidelines recommend intervening at a left ventricular ejection fraction of 55%, compared with 60% over serial imaging by the American guidelines for asymptomatic patients. Second, the European guidelines recommend a threshold of ≥65 years for surgical bioprosthesis, whereas the American guidelines employ multiple age categories, providing latitude for patient factors and preferences. Third, the guidelines endorse different age cut-offs for transcatheter vs. surgical aortic valve replacement, despite limited evidence. This review also discusses trends indicating a decreasing proportion of mechanical valve replacements. Finally, the review identifies gaps in the literature for areas including transcatheter aortic valve implantation in asymptomatic patients, the appropriateness of Ross procedures, concomitant coronary revascularization with aortic valve replacement, and bicuspid AS. To summarize, this state of the art review compares the latest European and American guidelines on the management of AS to highlight three areas of divergence: timing of intervention, valve selection, and surgical vs. transcatheter aortic valve replacement criteria.

Validation of reliability and predictivity of membrane septum length measurements for pacemaker need after transcatheter aortic valve replacement

OBJECTIVES

To assess the inter methodological agreement of membrane septum (MS) length measurement and additive value for risk stratification of new pacemaker implantation (PMI) over the established predictors after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have suggested MS length and implantation depth (ID) as predictors for PMI after TAVR. However, the measurement of MS length is neither uniform nor validated in different cohort.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent TAVR at five centers. The MS length was measured by two previously proposed methods (coronal and annular view method). Predictive ability of risk factors, including MS length and ID, for new PMI within 30 days after TAVR were evaluated.

RESULTS

Among 754 patients of study population, 31 patients (4.1%) required new PMI within 30 days of TAVR. There was a weak correlation (ρ = 0.47) and a poor agreement between the two methods. The ID and the difference between MS length and ID (ΔMSID), were independent predictors for new PMI, whereas MS length alone was not. Further, for predicting new PMI after TAVR, discrimination performance was not significantly improved when MS length was added to the model with ID alone (integrated discrimination improvement = 0, p= 0.99; continuous net-reclassification improvement = 0.10, p= 0.62).

CONCLUSIONS

External validity and predictive accuracy of MS length for PMI after TAVR were not sufficient to provide better risk stratification over the established predictors in our cohort. Moreover, the ID and ΔMSID, but not MS length alone, are predictive of future PMI after TAVR.

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.

Conduction Disturbance, Pacemaker Rates, and Hospital Length of Stay Following Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation with the Sapien 3 Valve

Background

In the absence of randomized data, an expert panel recently proposed an algorithm for conduction disturbance management in transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) recipients. However, external validations of its recommendations are limited.

Methods

We retrospectively identified 808 patients without a pre-existing pacing device who underwent transfemoral TAVI with the Sapien 3 valve at our institution in 2018-2019. Patients were grouped based on pre-existing conduction disturbance and immediate post-TAVI electrocardiogram. Timing of temporary pacemaker (TPM) removal and hospital discharge were compared with those of the expert panel recommendations to evaluate the associated risk of TPM reinsertion and permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation.

Results

In most group 1 patients (no electrocardiogram changes without pre-existing right bundle branch block), the timing of TPM removal and discharge were concordant with those of the expert panel recommendations, with low TPM reinsertion (0.8%) and postdischarge PPM (0.8%) rates. In the majority of group 5 patients (procedural high-degree/complete atrioventricular block), TPM was maintained, followed by PPM implantation, compatible with the expert panel recommendations. In contrast, in groups 2-4 (pre-existing/new conduction disturbances), earlier TPM removal than recommended by the expert panel (mostly, immediately after procedure) was feasible in 97.5%-100% of patients, with a low TPM reinsertion rate (0.0%-1.8%); earlier discharge was also feasible in 50.0%-65.5%, with a low 30-day postdischarge PPM rate (0.0%-2.8%) and no 30-day death.

Conclusions

Early TPM removal and discharge after TAVI appear safe and feasible in the majority of cases. These data may provide a framework for an early, streamlined hospital discharge plan for TAVI recipients, optimizing both cost savings and patient safety.

Impact of Pre-Existing Right Bundle Branch Block on In-Hospital Outcomes Following Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: Insight from National Inpatient Sample Database, 2016-2019

BACKGROUND

Right bundle branch block (RBBB) is a common finding in older adults and may have higher complications following the transcutaneous aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedure.

METHODS

The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) was queried for all hospitalizations undergoing percutaneous TAVR from 2016 to 2019. Cohorts with RBBB were compared to hospitalized patients without RBBB. Weighted multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association between RBBB and in-hospital outcomes.

RESULTS

Out of 203,900 procedures performed, 5.05% had RBBB, and 94.95% didn't have RBBB. The primary outcome of in-hospital mortality was not statistically different between patients with and without RBBB (0.92% vs. 1.41%, OR: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.41-1.03, p=0.07), a finding that did not change when adjusted for comorbidities in multivariate analysis (adjusted OR: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.41-1.05, p=0.08). In the RBBB group, total complication rates were higher (adjusted OR: 3.67, 95% CI: 3.32-4.06, p<0.001), driven primarily by pacemaker implantation (adjusted OR: 4.18, 95% CI: 3.77-4.63, p<0.001). We also found higher cardiac arrest (adjusted OR: 2.46, 95% CI: 1.08-23.99, p=0.001) and post-procedural heart failure (adjusted OR: 2.75, 95% CI: 1.07-7.08, p=0.036).

CONCLUSION

Patients with a history of RBBB who undergo TAVR have an increased need for permanent pacemaker implantation compared to those without a right bundle branch block. Whether extended monitoring post TAVR would reduce complications is a matter of further study.

Predictors of Permanent Pacemaker Implantation in Patients After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in a Chinese Population

Background: Permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation is the main complication of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Few studies have evaluated the requirement for PPM implantation due to ECG changes following TAVR in a Chinese population.

Objective: Our study aimed to evaluate the incidence and predictors of PPM implantation in a cohort of Chinese patients with TAVR.

Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 39 consecutive patients with severe native aortic stenosis referred for TAVR with a self-expandable prosthesis, the Venus A valve (Venus MedTech Inc., Hangzhou, China), from 2019 to 2021 at the Heart Center of Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University. Predictors of PPM implantation were identified using logistic regression.

Results: In our study, the incidence of PPM implantation was 20.5%. PPM implantation occurs with higher risk in patients with negative creatinine clearance (CrCl), dyslipidemia, high Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) Morbimortality scores, and lead I T wave elevation. TAVR induced several cardiac electrical changes such as increased R wave and T wave changes in lead V5. The main independent predictors of PPM implantation were new-onset left bundle branch block (LBBB) (coef: 3.211, 95% CI: 0.899–7.467, p = 0.004) and lead I T wave elevation (coef: 11.081, 95% CI: 1.632–28.083, p = 0.016).

Conclusion: New-onset LBBB and lead I T wave elevation were the main independent predictors of PPM implantation in patients undergoing TAVR. Clinical indications such as negative CrCl, dyslipidemia, high STS Morbimortality scores, and an increased T wave elevation before TAVR should be treated with caution to decrease the need for subsequent PPM implantation.

Delayed Total Atrioventricular Block After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Assessed by Implantable Loop Recorders

OBJECTIVES

The aims of this study were to evaluate the rate and time course of delayed total atrioventricular block (DT-AVB) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) using continuous electrocardiographic monitoring by implantable loop recorders and to identify potential predictors.

BACKGROUND

DT-AVB has been defined as onset more than 2 days after TAVR or after hospital discharge and is reported in 10% to 15% of patients at 30-day follow-up. To date, there is no standardized diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm to manage TAVR patients at risk for DT-AVB.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing TAVR and simultaneous electrophysiologic testing without persistent or recurrent total atrioventricular block within 48 hours after the procedure underwent loop recorder implantation for full disclosure of atrioventricular conduction during 12-month follow-up.

RESULTS

DT-AVB occurred in 7 of 59 patients (11.9%), with onset between 2 days and 3 months after the procedure. Both prolongation of the PQ interval between baseline and day 2 after TAVR (OR: 1.04; 95% CI: 1.01-1.09); P = 0.032) and prolongation of the HV interval during the procedure (OR: 1.07; 95% CI: 1.02-1.14; P = 0.015) significantly predicted the onset of DT-AVB.

CONCLUSIONS

TAVR was associated with a considerable rate of DT-AVB of nearly 12% in this series. Prolongation of the PQ interval between baseline and day 2 and intraprocedural prolongation of the HV interval were significant predictors of DT-AVB.

Novel Pressure-Regulated Deployment Strategy for Improving the Safety and Efficacy of Balloon-Expandable Transcatheter Aortic Valves

OBJECTIVES

The authors propose a novel pressure-regulated method for balloon-expandable transcatheter heart valve (THV) deployment, aimed at optimizing prosthesis-annulus apposition while preventing significant tissue injury.

BACKGROUND

The optimal method for balloon-expandable THV deployment remains debated. Current protocols are volume dependent, relying on under- and overfilling of the deployment apparatus. During deployment, the annular wall tension exerted by the expanding prosthesis is determined by maximal THV diameter and balloon pressure (Laplace's law).

METHODS

Three hundred thirty consecutive patients with severe native aortic stenosis who underwent TAVR with SAPIEN 3 THVs were included. One hundred and six patients were considered at high risk for annular rupture. THVs were deployed until reaching a predetermined balloon pressure. Postdilatation was performed to reduce mild or greater angiographic paravalvular regurgitation (PVR). Using a biomechanical model, annular wall stress was estimated for each case and assessed against rates of postdilatation, mild or greater PVR on transthoracic echocardiography, new permanent pacemaker placement or left bundle branch block, and annular rupture.

RESULTS

Patients with wall stress >3 MPa had reduced postdilatation rate (P < 0.001) and reduced final PVR (P = 0.014). Annular rupture occurred in 2 of 3 high-risk patients with wall stress >3.5 MPa (3.69 and 3.84 MPa); no rupture occurred in 95 high-risk patients with wall stress ≤3.5 MPa. We defined a single target deployment pressure per THV size to ensure deployment within target wall stress levels of 3 to 3.5 MPa: 6.25 atm for 23-mm THVs, 5.5 atm for 26-mm THVs, and 5 atm for 29-mm THVs. Patients within this target range (n = 136) had a 10.0% postdilatation rate, 12.7% mild PVR, and no moderate to severe PVR. The relationship between balloon filling volume and associated pressure and wall stress was inconsistent.

CONCLUSIONS

Pressure-regulated THV deployment is a simple, reproducible, safe, and effective method, regardless of high-risk anatomical complexities.

Time Course and Risk Factors of New-Onset Complete Atrioventricular Block After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

In this study, we aimed to investigate the time course of new-onset complete atrioventricular block (CAVB) and its reversibility after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). We analyzed 206 consecutive patients without baseline CAVB who underwent successful TAVI. The incidence of new-onset CAVB was determined to be 12.6% (26/206). Among these patients, 14 recovered from CAVB within 2 weeks (6.8%, 14/206), while the remaining 12 (5.8%, 12/206) underwent permanent pacemaker (PPM) insertion. Among the 12 patients who received the PPM, 4 were able to recover from CAVB within 4 months. Thus, only 8 among 206 patients (3.8%) showed persistent CAVB. Early-onset CAVB on the day of the procedure was the strongest predictor of PPM implantation (OR = 127). The electrocardiographic changes that occurred after TAVI were mostly recovered after 1 month. The most critical procedural factor that predicts CAVB and PPM insertion is the deep implantation (>4 mm) of a big valve (oversizing index >5.9%). In conclusion, the incidence of CAVB after TAVI was estimated to be at 12.6%. Two-thirds of these patients recovered from CAVB within 3 days, resulting in a final rate of persistent CAVB of 4%. To prevent CAVB, we have to implant an appropriate valve type with an optimal size and depth.

Conduction delays after transcatheter aortic valve implantation with balloon-expandable prosthesis and high implantation technique

Performing transcatheter aortic valve implantation with high implantation technique, i.e. with an aorto-ventricular ratio > 60/40, reduces the need of permanent pacemaker implantation. Valve calcification and prosthesis oversizing are predictors of permanent pacemaker implantation, but there are no available data on their role when transcatheter aortic valve implantation is performed with an aorto-ventricular ratio > 60/40. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of leaflets/annulus calcification and prosthesis oversizing on the incidence of permanent pacemaker implantation after transcatheter aortic valve implantation with a high implantation technique. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation was performed in 48 patients implanting a balloon-expandable transcatheter heart valve with an aorto-ventricular ratio > 60/40. Calcium burden was assessed by preprocedural multidetector computed tomography. An invasive electrophysiological study was performed before and after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Five patients (10.4%) needed permanent pacemaker implantation. At univariate analysis, baseline right bundle branch block and postprocedural PR, QRS and His-ventricular interval elongation significantly predicted permanent pacemaker implantation (p < 0.05). Receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis showed a correlation between transcatheter heart valve oversizing and permanent pacemaker implantation need, with the best cut-off being 17% (AUC = 0.72, p = 0.033). Linear regression analysis demonstrated that QRS complex elongation was related to total, left and non-coronary leaflet calcification (p < 0.05). This study demonstrates that, when transcatheter aortic valve implantation is performed using a balloon-expandable transcatheter heart valve deployed with an aorto-ventricular ratio > 60/40, the presence of leaflets/annulus calcification or the need to oversize the prosthesis correlate with the occurrence of pathological cardiac conduction delays.

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

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

Predictors of pacemaker implantation after TAVI in a registry including self, balloon and mechanical expandable valves

The need for permanent pacemaker implantation (PPMI) is a burdensome complication of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). The aim of our study was to evaluate different anatomical, clinical, electrocardiographic, and procedural variables associated with the development of conduction abnormalities after TAVI across the entire device spectrum. Single-center prospective cohort of consecutive patients who underwent TAVI since March 2017. Final cohort was studied to detect areas of calcium within aortic valve characterized by leaflet sector and region. Membranous septum (MS) length was assessed throughout a modified coronal view. Device selection and positioning were performed according to the operator criteria. Device selection and positioning were performed according to the operator criteria. From the 273 patients included, 57 underwent PPMI (20.8%). Univariate analysis determined right bundle branch block (RBBB), QRS duration, MS length and calcium within LVOT of non-coronary cuspid as independent predictors. After multivariable logistic regression, both RBBB (OR 6.138; 95% CI 1.23-30.73, P = 0.027) and MS length (OR 0.259; 95% CI 0.164-0.399, P < 0.005) emerged as statistically significant. As a model, they could predict PPMI in 88.7%, independently of which valve used. Youden index analysis yielded 7.69 mm as the optimal cut-off with a negative and positive predictive value of 94.7 and 71.9%, respectively. In our experience, both RBBB pattern and short membranous septum (< 8 mm) were strongly and independently associated with new permanent pacemaker implantation, regardless of the device type. Our findings suggest that this simple evolved measure of MS length may guide device selection and implantation technique and facilitate early discharge.

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

OBJECTIVES

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

BACKGROUND

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

Incidence, Predictors, and Implications of Permanent Pacemaker Requirement After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a safe and feasible alternative to surgery in patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis regardless of the surgical risk. Conduction abnormalities requiring permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation remain a common finding after TAVR due to the close proximity of the atrioventricular conduction system to the aortic root. High-grade atrioventricular block and new onset left bundle branch block (LBBB) are the most commonly reported conduction abnormalities after TAVR. The overall rate of PPM implantation after TAVR varies and is related to pre-procedural and intraprocedural factors. The available literature regarding the impact of conduction abnormalities and PPM requirement on morbidity and mortality is still conflicting. Pre-procedural conduction abnormalities such as right bundle branch block and LBBB have been linked with increased PPM implantation and mortality after TAVR. When screening patients for TAVR, heart teams should be aware of various anatomical and pathophysiological conditions that make patients more susceptible to increased risk of conduction abnormalities and PPM requirement after the procedure. This is particularly important as TAVR has been recently approved for patients with low surgical risk. The purpose of this review is to discuss the incidence, predictors, impact, and management of the various conduction abnormalities requiring PPM implantation in patients undergoing TAVR.

Evaluation and Management of Heart Block After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has developed substantially since its inception. Improvements in valve design, valve deployment technologies, preprocedural imaging and increased operator experience have led to a gradual decline in length of hospitalisation after TAVR. Despite these advances, the need for permanent pacemaker implantation for post-TAVR high-degree atrioventricular block (HAVB) has persisted and has well-established risk factors which can be used to identify patients who are at high risk and advise them accordingly. While most HAVB occurs within 48 hours of the procedure, there is a growing number of patients developing HAVB after initial hospitalisation for TAVR due to the trend for early discharge from hospital. Several observation and management strategies have been proposed. This article reviews major known risk factors for HAVB after TAVR, discusses trends in the timing of HAVB after TAVR and reviews some management strategies for observing transient HAVB after TAVR.

How to Image and Manage Prosthesis-Related Complications After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In this review, we provide an overview of potential prosthesis - related complications after transcatheter aortic valve replacement, their incidences, the imaging modalities best suited for detection, and possible strategies to manage these complications.

RECENT FINDINGS

Therapy for severe aortic valve stenosis requiring intervention has increasingly evolved toward transcatheter aortic valve replacement over the past decade, and the number of procedures performed has increased steadily in recent years. As more and more centers favor a minimalistic approach and largely dispense with general anesthesia and intra-procedural imaging by transesophageal echocardiography, post-procedural imaging is becoming increasingly important to promptly detect dysfunction of the transcatheter valve and potential complications. Complications after transcatheter aortic valve replacement must be detected immediately in order to initiate adequate therapeutic measures, which require a profound knowledge of possible complications that may occur after transcatheter aortic valve replacement, the imaging modalities best suited for detection, and available treatment options.

Outcomes associated with pacemaker implantation following transcatheter aortic valve replacement: A nationwide cohort study

BACKGROUND

Conduction abnormalities following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) often may require permanent pacemaker implantation (PPM).

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcomes associated with PPM after a TAVR procedure in a large, nationwide-level population.

METHODS

Based on the administrative hospital discharge database, the incidence of all-cause death, cardiovascular death, and hospitalization for heart failure (HF) were retrospectively collected, based on the presence or absence of PPM, in the first 30 days following all TAVRs in France from 2010 to 2019.

RESULTS

Among 520,662 patients hospitalized for aortic stenosis, 49,201 were treated with TAVR. A total of 29,422 patients had follow-up ≥6 months (median 1.7 years), 22% already had PPM at baseline, and 22% underwent PPM within the first 30 days post-TAVR. Adjusted hazard ratios for the combined risk of all-cause death and hospitalization for HF, during the whole follow-up, were higher in both patients with a previous PPM and in those implanted within 30 days (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval] 1.12 [1.07-1.17] and 1.11 [1.06-1.16], respectively).

CONCLUSION

PPM at baseline and within 30 days post-TAVR are independently associated with higher mortality and HF hospitalization during follow-up.

Conduction Disturbances and Permanent Pacemaker Implantation after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: Predictors and Prevention

Conduction disturbances and permanent pacemaker implantation (PPMI) remain a frequent and important consequence of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Understanding risk factors for TAVR-related conduction disturbances could improve patient selection, procedural techniques, and peri-procedural efforts for monitoring and treatment of heart block. Several studies have identified patient-related and procedural factors associated with new-onset left bundle branch block, high-degree atrioventricular block, and the need for PPMI after TAVR. Notable patient-related predictors include pre-existing right bundle branch block, membranous septal length, and calcification of the left ventricular outflow tract. Modifiable procedural predictors include device implantation depth, prosthesis oversizing, and valve type. This review aims to summarize the current literature examining predictors of conduction disturbances and PPMI after TAVR, particularly with regard to the newer-generation valve types. We also propose a management algorithm for the management of conduction disturbances post-procedure.

Temporal Incidence and Predictors of High-Grade Atrioventricular Block After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Background

The temporal incidence of high‐grade atrioventricular block (HAVB) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is uncertain. As a result, periprocedural monitoring and pacing strategies remain controversial. This study aimed to describe the temporal incidence of initial episode of HAVB stratified by pre‐ and post‐TAVR conduction and identify predictors of delayed events.

Methods and Results

Consecutive patients undergoing TAVR at a single center between February 2012 and June 2019 were retrospectively assessed for HAVB within 30 days. Patients with prior aortic valve replacement, permanent pacemaker (PPM), or conversion to surgical replacement were excluded. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to assess predictors of delayed HAVB (initial event >24 hours post‐TAVR). A total of 953 patients were included in this study. HAVB occurred in 153 (16.1%). After exclusion of those with prophylactic PPM placed post‐TAVR, the incidence of delayed HAVB was 33/882 (3.7%). Variables independently associated with delayed HAVB included baseline first‐degree atrioventricular block or right bundle‐branch block, self‐expanding valve, and new left bundle‐branch block. Forty patients had intraprocedural transient HAVB, including 16 who developed HAVB recurrence and 6 who had PPM implantation without recurrence. PPM was placed for HAVB in 130 (13.6%) (self‐expanding valve, 23.7% versus balloon‐expandable valve, 11.9%; P<0.001). Eight (0.8%) patients died by 30 days, including 1 unexplained without PPM present.

Conclusions

Delayed HAVB occurs with higher frequency in patients with baseline first‐degree atrioventricular block or right bundle‐branch block, new left bundle‐branch block, and self‐expanding valve. These findings provide insight into optimal monitoring and pacing strategies based on periprocedural ECG findings.

A Disruptive Technology: Determining Need for Permanent Pacing After TAVR

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has changed the paradigm for management of severe aortic stenosis. Despite evolution of TAVR over the past 2 decades, conduction system disturbances remain a concern post-TAVR. In this review, we describe (1) permanent pacemaker (PP) implant rates associated with TAVR, (2) risk factors predicting need for PP therapy post-TAVR, (3) management of perioperative conduction abnormalities, and (4) novel areas of research.

RECENT FINDINGS

Conduction disturbances remain a common issue post-TAVR, in particular, left bundle branch block (LBBB). Though newer data describes resolution of a significant fraction of these disturbances over time, rates of pacemaker therapy remain high despite improvements in valve technology and procedural technique. Recent consensus statements and guideline documents are important first steps in standardizing an approach to post-TAVR conduction disturbances. New areas of research show promise in both prediction and treatment of conduction disturbances post-TAVR.

Machine learning method for predicting pacemaker implantation following transcatheter aortic valve replacement

BACKGROUND

An accurate assessment of permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) risk following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is important for clinical decision making. The aims of this study were to investigate the significance and utility of pre- and post-TAVR ECG data and compare machine learning approaches with traditional logistic regression in predicting pacemaker risk following TAVR.

METHODS

Five hundred fifity seven patients in sinus rhythm undergoing TAVR for severe aortic stenosis (AS) were included in the analysis. Baseline demographics, clinical, pre-TAVR ECG, post-TAVR data, post-TAVR ECGs (24 h following TAVR and before PPI), and echocardiographic data were recorded. A Random Forest (RF) algorithm and logistic regression were used to train models for assessing the likelihood of PPI following TAVR.

RESULTS

Average age was 80 ± 9 years, with 52% male. PPI after TAVR occurred in 95 patients (17.1%). The optimal cutoff of delta PR (difference between post and pre TAVR PR intervals) to predict PPI was 20 ms with a sensitivity of 0.82, a specificity of 0.66. With regard to delta QRS, the optimal cutoff was 13 ms with a sensitivity of 0.68 and a specificity of 0.59. The RF model that incorporated post-TAVR ECG data (AUC 0.81) more accurately predicted PPI risk compared to the RF model without post-TAVR ECG data (AUC 0.72). Moreover, the RF model performed better than logistic regression model in predicting PPI risk (AUC: 0.81 vs. 0.69).

CONCLUSIONS

Machine learning using RF methodology is significantly more powerful than traditional logistic regression in predicting PPI risk following TAVR.

Anatomical Predictors of Pacemaker Dependency After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

BACKGROUND

Conduction disturbances after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) are often transient. Limited data exist on anatomic factors predisposing to pacemaker dependency after TAVR. We sought to assess the rate and the possible predictors of pacemaker dependency after TAVR.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing pacemaker implantation up to 30 days after TAVR between May 2014 and September 2019 were included. Baseline electrocardiographic, computed tomography, and procedural characteristics were collected, including valve implantation depth and membranous septum length, an anatomic surrogate of the distance between the aortic annulus and the His bundle. Pacemaker dependency at 30 days and 1 year and all-cause mortality during follow-up were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of 728 TAVR patients, 112 (53.5% men; median age, 81 years) underwent pacemaker implantation after TAVR. Of these, 44.6% (50 of 112) were pacemaker dependent at 30 days and 46.7% (36 of 77) at 1 year. By multivariate analysis, independent predictors of 30-day pacemaker dependency included left ventricular outflow tract calcifications under the left coronary cusp (odds ratio, 5.69 [95% CI, 1.45-22.31]; P=0.013) and a difference between membranous septum length and implantation depth (ΔMSID) ≥3 mm (odds ratio, 7.58 [95% CI, 2.07-27.78]; P=0.002). Conversely, membranous septum length and implantation depth alone were not associated with pacemaker dependency (odds ratio, 0.79 [95% CI, 0.60-1.05]; P=0.11 and odds ratio, 1.11 [95% CI, 0.99-1.24]; P=0.08). At a median follow-up of 28.1 (11.7-48.6) months, pacemaker-dependent patients did not show a worse survival (P=0.26).

CONCLUSIONS

Less than half of the patients undergoing pacemaker implantation after TAVR are pacemaker-dependent at midterm follow-up. ΔMSID ≥3 mm and the presence of left ventricular outflow tract calcifications under the left coronary cusp, but not membranous septum length nor implantation depth alone, are predictive of long-term pacemaker dependency after TAVR, thus influencing device selection and programming.

Predictors of pacemaker implantation after transcatheter aortic valve implantation according to kind of prosthesis and risk profile: a systematic review and contemporary meta-analysis

AIMS

Permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) may be required after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Evidence on PPI prediction has largely been gathered from high-risk patients receiving first-generation valve implants. We undertook a meta-analysis of the existing literature to examine the incidence and predictors of PPI after TAVI according to generation of valve, valve type, and surgical risk.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We made a systematic literature search for studies with ≥100 patients reporting the incidence and adjusted predictors of PPI after TAVI. Subgroup analyses examined these features according to generation of valve, specific valve type, and surgical risk. We obtained data from 43 studies, encompassing 29 113 patients. Permanent pacemaker implantation rates ranged from 6.7% to 39.2% in individual studies with a pooled incidence of 19% (95% CI 16-21). Independent predictors for PPI were age [odds ratio (OR) 1.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01-1.09], left bundle branch block (LBBB) (OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.12-1.77), right bundle branch block (RBBB) (OR 4.15, 95% CI 3.23-4.88), implantation depth (OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.11-1.26), and self-expanding valve prosthesis (OR 2.99, 95% CI 1.39-4.59). Among subgroups analysed according to valve type, valve generation and surgical risk, independent predictors were RBBB, self-expanding valve type, first-degree atrioventricular block, and implantation depth.

CONCLUSIONS

The principle independent predictors for PPI following TAVI are age, RBBB, LBBB, self-expanding valve type, and valve implantation depth. These characteristics should be taken into account in pre-procedural assessment to reduce PPI rates. PROSPERO ID CRD42020164043.

Evaluating the Validity of Risk Scoring in Predicting Pacemaker Rates following Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Introduction

Requirement of permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation is a known and common postoperative consequence of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The Emory risk score has been recently developed to help risk stratify the need for PPM insertion in patients undergoing TAVR with SAPIEN 3 valves. Our aim was to assess the validity of this risk score in our patient population, as well as its applicability to patients receiving self-expanding valves.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of 479 TAVR patients without preoperative pacemakers from November 2016 through December 2018. Preoperative risk factors included in the Emory risk score were collected for each patient: preoperative QRS, preoperative right bundle branch block (RBBB), preoperative syncope, and degree of valve oversizing. Multivariable analysis of the individual variables within the scoring system to identify predictors of PPM placement was performed. The predictive discrimination of the risk score for the risk of PPM placement after TAVR was assessed with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC).

Results

Our results demonstrated that, of the 479 patients analyzed, 236 (49.3%) received balloon-expandable valves and 243 (50.7%) received self-expanding valves. Pacemaker rates were higher in patients receiving self-expanding valves than those receiving balloon-expandable valves (25.1% versus 16.1%, p=0.018). The Emory risk score showed a moderate correlation with pacemaker requirement in patients receiving each valve type, with AUC for balloon-expandable and self-expanding valves of 0.657 and 0.645, respectively. Of the four risk score components, preoperative RBBB was the only predictor of pacemaker requirement with an AUC of 0.615 for both balloon-expandable and self-expanding valves. Conclusion. In our cohort, the Emory risk score had modest predictive utility for PPM insertion after balloon-expandable and self-expanding TAVR. The risk score did not offer better discriminatory utility than that of preoperative RBBB alone. Understanding the determinants of PPM insertion after TAVR can better guide patient education and postoperative management.

Intraprocedural dynamics of cardiac conduction during transcatheter aortic valve implantation: Assessment by simultaneous electrophysiological testing

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is an established treatment for patients with severe aortic stenosis and high to intermediate surgical risk. However, the proximity of the conduction system to the prosthesis landing zone bears the risk of atrioventricular conduction disorders. The underlying pathophysiology is not fully understood.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to characterize the impact of TAVI on the conduction system as assessed by simultaneous electrophysiological testing.

METHODS

AH and HV intervals and QRS duration were measured using a quadripolar His catheter and surface electrocardiogram in 108 patients at baseline (BL), after balloon predilation (timepoint 1 [T1]), after implantation of the valve prosthesis (T2), and after postdilation, if deemed necessary (T3).

RESULTS

Between BL and T2, significant increases of HV interval and QRS duration were observed, with a mean delta of +12.4 ms and +32.7 ms, respectively. Both balloon predilation and valve implantation had an impact on infranodal conduction. No significant increase of AH intervals was documented. The increase of QRS duration led to left bundle branch block (LBBB) in 57 patients (52.8%). Implantation depth positively correlated with QRS prolongation (ρ = 0.21, P = .042) but not with changes of AH or HV interval (ρ = -0.03, P = .762; and ρ = 0.15, P = .130, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Electrophysiological testing during TAVI shows impairment of infranodal atrioventricular conduction by balloon predilation and valve implantation. This impairment is positively correlated with valve implantation depth and results in an increase of QRS duration with mainly LBBB pattern on surface electrocardiogram.

Electrocardiographic and clinical predictors for permanent pacemaker requirement after transcatheter aortic valve implantation: a 10-year single center experience

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to identify clinical, electrocardiographic (ECG) and procedural predictors for permanent pacemaker (PPM) requirement after transaortic valve implantation (TAVI).

METHODS

All consecutive patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis (SSAS) undergoing TAVI at our single center were included in the study and prospectively followed. All patients had standard 12-leads ECGs recordings before and after TAVI and continuous ECG monitoring during hospital stay. Primary endpoint was to identify electrocardiographic predictors of PPM implantation after TAVI; secondary endpoint was to ascertain other clinical or procedure-related predictive factors of PPM need. PPM implantation was further arbitrarily divided into early and late one (beyond the 3^rd day).

RESULTS

Among the 431 patients undergoing TAVI between 2008 and 2018, 77 (18%) needed PPM implantation; 47 (11%) had an early procedure, and 30 (7%) a late implant. Preoperative right bundle branch block (RBBB) implies more than five-fold increase of the risk of PPM implantation (OR 5.19, CI 1.99-13.56, P=0.001), whereas the use of a self-expandable prosthesis is associated with an almost three-fold increase of the risk (OR 2.60, CI 1.28-5.28, P=0.008). In the late PPM implantation subgroup, only the history of syncope retains a significant association with such an increased risk (OR 2.71, CI 1.09-6.75, P=0.032).

CONCLUSIONS

The need of a PPM in the individual TAVI patient is hardly predictable. However, the finding of pre-existing RBBB, the use of self-expandable prosthesis and history of syncope can individuate patients at increased risk.

Temporal Trends in the Incidence and Outcomes of Pacemaker Implantation After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in the United States (2012-2017)

Background

Nationwide studies documenting temporal trends in permanent pacemaker implantation (PPMI) following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) are limited.

Methods and Results

We selected patients who underwent TAVR between 2012 and 2017 in the National Readmission Database. The primary end point was the 6‐year trend in post‐TAVR PPMI at index hospitalization and at 30, 90, and 180 days after discharge. The secondary end point was the association between PPMI and in‐hospital mortality, stroke, cost, length of stay, and disposition. Among the 89 202 patients who underwent TAVR, 77 405 (86.8%) with no prior pacemaker or defibrillator were included. Patients who required PPMI had a higher prevalence of atrial fibrillation (43.6% versus 38.7%, P<0.001) and conduction abnormalities (28.4% versus 15.3%, P<0.001). The incidence of PPMI during index admission increased from 8.7% in 2012 to 13.2% in 2015, and then decreased to 9.6% in 2017. The incidence of inpatient PPMI within 30 days after discharge increased from 0.5% in 2012 to 1.25% in 2017 (P_trend<0.001). Inpatient PPMI beyond 30 days remained rare (<0.5%) during the study period. After risk adjustment, PPMI was not associated with in‐hospital mortality or stroke but was associated with increased nonhome discharge, longer hospitalization, and higher cost. The incremental expenditure associated with post‐TAVR PPMI during index admission increased from $9.6 million to $72.2 million between 2012 and 2017.

Conclusions

After an upward trend, rates of PPMI after TAVR in the United States stabilized at ~10% in 2016 to 2017, but there was a notable increase in PPMI within 30 days after the index admission. PPMI was not associated with increased in‐hospital morbidity or mortality but led to longer hospitalization, higher cost, and more nonhome discharges.