Suture- or Plug-Based Large-Bore Arteriotomy Closure: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

The PIGTAIL paradigm for a fast and safe transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement is the preferred primary access route whenever possible. Despite advancements in expertise and delivery system profiles, complications associated with the primary femoral access still significantly affect procedural morbidity and outcomes. The current standard for accurate main access planning involves proper preprocedural evaluation guided by computed tomography. Several baseline clinical and anatomical features serve as predictors for the risk of vascular injury occurring during or after transcatheter aortic valve replacement. In this paper, we aimed at reviewing the most up-to-date knowledge of the topic for a safe transfemoral access approach according to a paradigm we have called "PIGTAIL."

Percutaneous Versus Surgical Femoral Cannulation in Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) is increasing worldwide. In most cases, the surgical technique includes cannulation of the groin for the establishment of cardiopulmonary bypass, requiring a second surgical incision (SC) for exposure and cannulation of the femoral vessels. With the introduction of arterial closure devices, percutaneous cannulation (PC) of the groin has become a possible alternative. We performed a meta-analysis and systematic review to compare clinical endpoints between the patients who underwent PC and SC for MICS.

METHODS

Three databases were assessed. The primary outcome was any access site complication. Secondary outcomes were perioperative mortality, any wound complication, any vascular complication, lymphatic complications, femoral/iliac stenosis, stroke, procedural duration, and hospital length of stay (LOS). A random effects model was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 5 studies with 2,038 patients were included. When compared with PC, patients who underwent SC showed a higher incidence of any access site complication (odds ratio [OR] = 3.09, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.87 to 5.10, P < 0.01), any wound complication (OR = 10.10, 95% CI: 3.31 to 30.85, P < 0.01), lymphatic complication (OR = 9.37, 95% CI: 2.15 to 40.81, P < 0.01), and longer procedural duration (standardized mean difference = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.12 to 0.51, P < 0.01). There was no significant difference between the 2 groups regarding perioperative mortality, any vascular complication, femoral/iliac stenosis, stroke, or hospital LOS.

CONCLUSIONS

The analysis suggests that surgical groin cannulation in MICS is associated with a higher incidence of any access site complication (especially wound complication and lymphatic fistula) and with a longer procedural time compared with PC. There was no difference in perioperative mortality.

A study of bailout plug-based closure after failed suture-based closure in patients undergoing transfemoral TAVI

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous suture-based arterial access site closure (ProGlide) is commonly applied in patients undergoing transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). However, the failure of a suture-based vascular closure device (VCD) may require additional treatment.

AIMS

We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of bailout access site closure using a large-bore plug-based device (MANTA) in patients with failed suture-based closure during transfemoral TAVI.

METHODS

Patients undergoing a bailout attempt with the MANTA VCD were identified from a prospectively enrolling, institutional registry. Efficacy was defined as haemostasis at the access site without the need for alternative treatment other than manual compression or endovascular ballooning. Safety was defined as freedom from vascular dissection, stenosis and occlusion requiring intervention.

RESULTS

Of 2,505 patients, 66 underwent a bailout attempt with MANTA as a result of ProGlide failure, which occurred before the large-bore sheath insertion in 16.7% of patients and after the sheath removal in 83.3% of patients. Bailout MANTA was deemed effective in 75.8% of patients (50/66), and the technique was considered safe in 86.4% (57/66) of patients. Failure of bailout MANTA occurred because of its superficial application, resulting in persistent bleeding in 18.2% of patients (12/66), and because of its deep application, resulting in stenosis or occlusion in 6.1% of patients (4/66). Operator experience with the technique (odds ratio [OR] 12.29, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.99-75.99; p=0.007) and prior use of three ProGlides (OR 0.02, 95% CI: <0.01-0.39; p=0.010) were the only independent predictors of the efficacy endpoint.

CONCLUSIONS

Bailout MANTA after ProGlide failure was effective and safe, but operator experience seems to be crucial. Further technological refinements to facilitate accurate placement appear necessary.

Assessment of the MANTA closure device in real-life transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement: A single-centre observational study

BACKGROUND

Vascular complications increase morbidity and mortality in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Data involving suture-based percutaneous vascular closure devices (VCDs) have been extensive. Although promising, data regarding the efficacy and safety of the MANTA VCD (Teleflex) are scarce. We sought to assess the safety and effectiveness of the MANTA device in a real-life unselected cohort of patients undergoing transfemoral-TAVR (TF-TAVR).

METHODS

This single-center retrospective observational study included a cohort of consecutive patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) treated by our team using TAVR between January 2020 to December 2022. The primary outcome measure was access-related major and minor vascular complications according to the Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC-3) definition criteria.

RESULTS

From January 2020 to December 2022, a total of 347 patients underwent TF-TAVR were treated using the MANTA 18 Fr VCD system for vascular closure. Mean age was 82.4 ± 6.1 years (56-98 years). There were no significant differences in preoperative and procedural characteristics between patients with and without VCD-related major vascular complications. Access site-related major and minor vascular complications occurred in 20 of 347 patients (5.7%). Overall, major vascular complications occurred in 5 patients (1.4%) and device failure was seen in 17 patients (4.9%).

CONCLUSION

This French real world evaluation of large-bore arteriotomy closure in TF-TAVR indicated that MANTA VCD is a feasible alternative with an acceptable low rate of access-site-related complications.

Suture-Based Vascular Closure Versus Surgical Closure of Large Bore Arteriotomies: A Real-World Experience

INTRODUCTION

With the introduction of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR), thoracic endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (TEVAR), and frequent use of left ventricular assist devices in complicated percutaneous coronary interventions, the use of large bore arterial access has become a necessity. In the index study, we compared the percutaneous closure of large arteriotomies with open surgical (OS) closure.

METHODS

It was a prospective study in which we compared the technical success and vascular complication rate associated with the use of a suture-based vascular closure device (VCD): Perclose ProGlide (PP) with that of OS closure. The study was carried out at Command Hospital Air Force, Bengaluru, India, from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2020. The inclusion criteria were any percutaneous intervention involving large bore arterial access (≥12 French (F) sheath). The exclusion criteria were any condition where a persistent need for vascular access at the end of the procedure was required. We noted the baseline characteristics and type of anesthesia for all patients. The primary outcome was technical success and major vascular complications, which included major local site bleeding: Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC) 3 or more, failed hemostasis requiring a second intervention, and acute vessel occlusion. Total time taken for the procedure (TTP), time to ambulation (TTA), and time to discharge post-procedure (TTD) were noted for each patient. The secondary outcomes were any bleeding other than major, local hematoma sized >5 cm at 24 hours, pseudo aneurysm formation at 30 days, and acute limb ischemia at 30 days.

RESULTS

A total of 120 patients (PP: 60 (males: 54, females: 6), OS: 60 (males: 50, females: 10)) were included in this study. The mean age of patients was comparable in both groups (PP: 71.8 ± 9.62 years and OS: 71.0 ± 7.76 years, p-value: 0.63). Total large arteriotomies (mean size: 18.03F ± 3.34) closed were 184 (PP: 90, OS: 94). The procedures performed were EVAR: 64 (PP: 30, OS: 34), TAVI: 38 (PP: 21, OS: 17), and TEVAR: 18 (PP: 9, OS: 9). All patients in PP group received dual ProGlide with preclose technique. All TEVAR procedures (total arteriotomies: 18) required a vascular sheath of ≥ 24F. There was no statistical difference between the mean size of sheaths used in the two groups. The technical success (PP: 95.55%, OS: 97.87%, 95% CI: -5.78%-10.98%, p-value: 0.48) and rate of major complications were similar in both groups. Three patients in the PP group who had failed hemostasis with two ProGlides were successfully managed with one additional Angioseal (6F) each. The occurrence of hematoma sized larger than 5 cm was significantly more in the PP group compared to the OS group (PP: 7 (7.78%), OS: 0 (0%), p-value: 0.006). While GA was used for all patients who underwent vascular closure with OS, only eight patients (13.33%) in the PP group required GA. The TTP, TTA, and TTD were significantly lower in the PP group as compared to the OS group.

CONCLUSION

The percutaneous closure of large bore arteriotomies with suture-based VCDs is equally effective and is not associated with increased major vascular complications. In fact, the TTP, TTA, and TTD are significantly lower in the PP group which can translate to better patient comfort and lower costs.

Systematic review and meta-analysis comparing Manta device and Perclose device for closure of large bore arterial access

Data comparing MANTA device with Perclose device for large bore arterial access closure is limited. We performed meta-analysis to compare safety and efficacy of the two devices in large (⩾14 Fr sheath) arteriotomy closure post-TAVR. Relevant studies were identified via PubMed, Cochrane, and EMBASE databases until June, 2022. Data was analyzed using random effect model to calculate relative odds of VARC-2 defined access-site complications and short-term (in-hospital or 30-day) mortality. A total of 12 studies (2 RCT and 10 observational studies) comprising 2339 patients were included. The odds of major vascular complications (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.51-1.92; p = 0.98); life threatening and major bleeding (OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.45-1.33; p = 0.35); minor vascular complications (OR 1.37, 95% CI 0.63-2.99; p = 0.43); minor bleeding (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.57-1.56; p = 0.82); device failure (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.49-1.11; p = 0.14); hematoma formation (OR 0.76, 95% CI 0.33-1.75; p = 0.52); dissection, stenosis, occlusion, or pseudoaneurysm (OR 1.08, 95% CI 0.71-1.62; p = 0.73) and short-term mortality (OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.55-1.84; p = 0.98) between both devices were similar. MANTA device has a similar efficacy and safety profile compared to Perclose device.

Strategies to Minimize Access Site-related Complications in Patients Undergoing Transfemoral Artery Procedures with Large-bore Devices

Large bore accesses refer to accesses with a diameter of 10 French or greater and are necessary for various medical devices, including those used in transcatheter aortic valve replacement, endovascular aneurysm repair stent-grafts, and percutaneous mechanical support devices. Notably, the utilization of these devices via femoral access is steadily increasing due to advancements in technology and implantation techniques, which are expanding the pool of patients suitable for percutaneous procedures. However, procedures involving large bore devices carry a high risk of bleeding and vascular complications (VCs), impacting both morbidity and long-term mortality. In this review article, we will first discuss the incidence, determinants, and prognostic impact of VCs in patients undergoing large bore access procedures. Subsequently, we will explore the strategies developed in recent years to minimize VCs, including techniques for optimizing vascular puncture through femoral cannulation, such as the use of echo-guided access cannulation and fluoroscopic guidance. Additionally, we will evaluate existing vascular closure devices designed for large bore devices. Finally, we will consider new pharmacological strategies aimed at reducing the risk of periprocedural access-related bleeding.

Comparison of MANTA versus Perclose Prostyle large-bore vascular closure devices during transcatheter aortic valve implantation

BACKGROUND

New vascular closure devices (VCD) are being introduced for achieving hemostasis after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). However, no safety or efficacy data have been published compared to other contemporary VCD.

AIM

To compare the safety and efficacy of suture-based Perclose Prostyle as compared to plug-based MANTA device.

METHODS

A total of 408 consecutive TAVI patients from two high volume TAVI centers were included in the present study. Patients were grouped according to VCD: Prostyle versus MANTA. Propensity score matching (PSM) and multivariable analysis were utilized to compare clinical endpoints between the two groups. The primary endpoint was any vascular complication (VC) according to VARC-3 criteria.

RESULTS

After PSM, a total of 264 patients were analyzed, of them 132 in each group. Overall baseline characteristics of the two groups were comparable. Primary end-point was similar between MANTA as compared to Prostyle (16.7% vs. 15.3% respectively, p = 0.888). The main driver for VC among MANTA group were minor vascular complications (15.2%). Conversely, minor and major VC contributed equally to the primary endpoint among Prostyle group (7.6%) (p = 0.013). No outcome predictors were identified in multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

VCD for transfemoral TAVI using the new-generation Prostyle device or the MANTA device achieved comparable VARC-3 VC rates.

Ultrasound-guided closure of the femoral artery during venoarterial decannulation using a large-bore closure device

BACKGROUND

Peripheral femoro-femoral venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) is viable for fast hemodynamic assistance during cardiogenic shock. Ultrasound-guided closure with a large-bore device (MANTA®) is a feasible option potentially replacing surgical arteriotomy closure in peripheral VA-ECMO decannulation.

METHODS

This retrospective study included patients weaning from percutaneously inserted femoro-femoral VA-ECMO at the Helsinki University Hospital, Finland in 2012-2020. The primary endpoints were access-site complications, a composite of hematomas/seromas/surgical site infections (SSIs), and the safety endpoint of vascular complications (VCs).

RESULTS

A total of 100 consecutive percutaneously implanted and weaned VA-ECMO patients were stratified into two groups by decannulation strategy: percutaneous ultrasound-guided MANTA device (n = 21, 21.0%) or surgical approach (n = 79, 79.0%). The mean age of the cohort was 51 ± 13 years and females represented 25.0%. The technical success rate of the percutaneous ultrasound-guided MANTA technique was 95.2%. In multivariate analysis, surgical closure was associated with a higher incidence of combined access site hematomas/seromas/SSIs compared to percutaneous ultrasound-guided deployment of MANTA device (44.3% versus 9.5%, odds ratio (OR): 7.162, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.544-33.222; p = 0.012). Similarly, access-site complications necessitating interventions were more frequent in the surgical closure group compared to US-MANTA (ultrasound-guided MANTA) group (26.6% versus 0.0%, p = 0.005). VCs were infrequent in both groups without any significant intergroup difference (p > 0.99).

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous ultrasound-guided MANTA closure of the femoral artery after VA-ECMO decannulation was associated with high technical success rate and low incidence of VCs. Compared to surgical closure, access-site complications were significantly less frequent, along with access-site complications necessitating interventions.

Vascular Complications in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement With Plug-Based vs Suture-Based Closure Devices

BACKGROUND

There are conflicting data regarding the efficacy and safety of suture vs plug-based vascular closure devices (VCDs) for large-bore catheter management in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). We compared the rates of vascular complications (VCs) associated with 2 commonly used VCDs in a large cohort of patients undergoing TAVR.

METHODS

We conducted a single-centre, all-comer, prospective registry study, enrolling patients undergoing TAVR for symptomatic severe aortic stenosis (AS) between the years 2009 and 2022. Clinical outcomes were compared between patients undergoing closure of the femoral access point using the MANTA VCD (M-VCD) (Teleflex, Wayne, PA) vs the ProGlide VCD (P-VCD) (Abbott Vascular, Abbott Park, IL). The main outcome measures were researcher adjudicated events of VARC-2 defined major and minor VCs.

RESULTS

Overall, 2368 patients were enrolled in the registry; 1315 (51.0% male, 81.0 ± 7.0 years) patients were included in the current analysis. P-VCD was used in 813 patients, whereas M-VCD was used in 502 patients. In-hospital VCs were more frequent in the M-VCD vs the P-VCD group (17.3% vs 9.8%; P < 0.001). This outcome was mainly driven by elevated rates of minor VCs in the M-VCD group, whereas no significant difference was observed for major VCs (15.1% vs 8.4%; P < 0.001 and 2.2% vs 1.5%; P = 0.33, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients undergoing TAVR for severe AS, M-VCD was associated with higher rates of VCs. This outcome was mainly driven by minor VCs. The rate of major VCs was low in both groups.

A Comparative Analysis of the Early and Late Complication Rates and the Effect of Calcification on the Efficacy of MANTA and ProGlide Vascular Closure Devices

Introduction The Perclose ProGlide and, more recently, MANTA Large-Bore Closure Device are commonly used vascular closure devices (VCDs) for managing large-bore vascular access haemostasis. The extent of calcification in the common femoral artery (CFA) plays a crucial role in choosing between these devices. ProGlide may face challenges with anterior calcification, while MANTA may have issues with posterior calcification. Our study compared their effectiveness, adjunct usage, calcification impact and early/late complications. Methods A retrospective analysis of procedures involving large-bore CFA access from 2017 to 2022 was conducted. Closure was grouped according to VCD as Group A (ProGlide) and Group B (MANTA). Calcification was designated as anterior and posterior and combined on pre-operative computed tomography angiography along 10 mm segments with 0.625 mm slice thickness. The success of haemostasis was graded as Grade 1 (haemostasis without adjuncts), Grade 2 (haemostasis with adjuncts) and Grade 3 (failed haemostasis needing rescue); Grades 1 and 2 were pooled as successful haemostasis. Statistical analysis was undertaken in Minitab 21 for Windows, particularly analysing calcification and its impact on the success of haemostasis. Results We evaluated 370 large-bore CFA accesses, distributed across two groups: Group A(64.9%, n=243) and Group B (35.1%, n=127), for a total of 205 endovascular procedures (93.1% (191) EVAR and 5.3% (11) TEVAR). The mean age was 74.9±8 years, predominantly males (88.2%, n=181). The average body mass index (BMI) was 28±5.8, with 20.9% (43) individuals having diabetes and 18.5% (37) current smokers. The mean sheath size OD was 16±2.5, with 4.5% (11) re-do groins in Group A and 6.2% (8) in Group B. Successful haemostasis was achieved in 91.8% (n=223) in Group A (44.8%, n=109 Grade 2) and 90.5% (n=115) in Group B (21%, n=27 Grade 2). Rescue operations were needed in 8.2% (20) in Group A and 9.1% (12) in Group B. Pseudoaneurysms developed more commonly in Grade 2 haemostasis with 9.9% (11) in Group A and 1.6% (2) in Group B (p=0.3). Anterior calcification was observed in 14.8% (36) in Group A and 18.8% (24) in Group B. In comparison, posterior calcification was present in 62.5% (152) in Group A and 66.9% (85) in Group B. Notably, calcification did not significantly impact haemostasis (p=0.79). Additional VCD deployment was necessary due to device failure in 4.5% (11) cases in Group A and 1.5% (2) cases in Group B. Conclusion The overall success rate was comparable between the two groups. However, Group A required more adjuncts to achieve successful haemostasis. The site of calcification did not impact the efficacy of closure devices. Pseudoaneurysm formation was more frequent when adjuncts were needed.

Vascular Complications Following Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation, Using MANTA (Collagen Plug-Based) versus PROSTAR (Suture-Based), from a French Single-Center Retrospective Registry

TAVI requires a large-bore arteriotomy. Closure is usually performed by the suture system. Some studies report a vascular complication rate of up to 21%. MANTA is a recently developed percutaneous closure system dedicated to large caliber vessels based on an anchoring system. Early studies report a lower rate of vascular complications with MANTA devices. This single-center retrospective study included all patients who underwent femoral TAVI at the Brest University Hospital from 20 November 2019 to 31 March 2021. The primary endpoint is the rate of vascular complications (major and minor) pre and post-TAVI procedure. In total, 264 patients were included. There were no significant differences in vascular complications (major and minor) between the two groups (13.6% in the MANTA group versus 21.2% in the PROSTAR group; p = 0.105), although there was a tendency to have fewer minor vascular complications in the Manta group (12.1% versus 20.5%; p = 0.067). Manta was associated with a lower rate of bleeding complications (3.8% versus 15.2%; p = 0.002), predominantly minor complications with fewer closure failures (4.5% versus 13.6%; p = 0.01), less use of covered stents (4.5% versus 12.9%; p = 0.016), and with no difference in the need for vascular surgery compared to the Prostar group (1.5% versus 2.3%; p = 0.652). On the other hand, Manta was associated with a higher rate of femoral stenosis (4.5% versus 0%; p = 0.013) without clinical significance (1.5% versus 0%; p = 0.156). The Manta and Prostar devices are equivalent in terms of vascular complications. The Manta, compared to the Prostar, is associated with fewer bleeding complications.

Impact of Valve Academic Research Consortium 3 (VARC-3) minor access site vascular complications in patients undergoing percutaneous transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of Valve Academic Research Consortium 3 minor access site vascular complications (VCs) in patients who underwent percutaneous transfemoral (TF) transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

METHODS

This single-centre retrospective study included consecutive patients who underwent percutaneous TF-TAVI from 2009 to 2021. A propensity score-matched analysis was performed to compare early and long-term clinical results between patients with VC and without VC (nVC).

RESULTS

A total of 2161 patients were included, of whom 284 (13.1%) experienced access site VC. Propensity score analysis allowed to match 270 patients from the VC group with 727 patients from the nVC group. In the matched cohorts, the VC group showed longer operative times (63.5 vs 50.0 min, P < 0.001), higher operative and in-hospital mortality (2.6% vs 0.7%, P = 0.022; and 6.3% vs 3.2%, P = 0.040, respectively), longer hospital length of stay (8 vs 7 days, P = 0.001) and higher rates of blood transfusion (20.4% vs 4.3%, P < 0.001) and infectious complications (8.9% vs 3.8%, P = 0.003). Overall survival during follow-up was significantly lower in the VC group (hazard ratio 1.37, 95% CI 1.03-1.82, P = 0.031) with 5-year survival rates being 58.0% (95% CI 49.5-68.0%) and 70.7% (95% CI 66.2-75.5%) for the VC and nVC groups, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This retrospective study observed that minor access site VCs during percutaneous TF-TAVI can be serious events affecting early and long-term outcomes.

Vascular Access in Percutaneous Coronary Intervention of Chronic Total Occlusions: A State-of-the-Art Review

The outcomes of chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary intervention have considerably improved during the last decade with continued emphasis on improving procedural safety. Vascular access site bleeding remains one of the most frequent complications. Several procedural strategies have been implemented to reduce the rate of vascular access site complications. This state-of-the-art review summarizes and describes the current evidence on optimal vascular access strategies for chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary intervention.

Cutting balloon for femoral arterial and venus obstructions due to suture-based closure devices: Case series

Suture-based vascular closure devices have been shown to be effective in hemostasis for procedures with vascular access. However, iatrogenic vascular occlusion may occur. The cutting balloon (CB) is a noncompliant balloon wrapped with 3-4 microsurgical blades that are intended to modify vascular lesions, but it may also be utilized to cut and release endovascular sutures. We report two cases in which the CB was employed as a bailout strategy to alleviate suture-related vascular occlusion after transcatheter aortic valve replacement. The CB can be effectively utilized to resolve suture-related vascular occlusion.

Evaluation of the MANTA Vascular Closure Device in Transfemoral TAVI

BACKGROUND

The MANTA vascular closure device (VCD) is a novel collagen plug-based VCD for large bore arteriotomies. The current literature regarding complication rates of this device is quite variable and mostly limited to relatively small case series.

METHODS

This study is retrospective analysis of the MANTA VCD-related main access site complications according to Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 (VARC-2) criteria during the hospital stay. Particular attention was paid to the detailed analysis of multislice computed tomography with regard to the anatomy of the access vessel and the puncture site itself.

RESULTS

A total of 524 patients underwent transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TF TAVI) including the use of the MANTA device (18F) for percutaneous vascular closure. A group of 22 patients was excluded from the study due to incomplete imaging data. During the study period, we observed 28 major (5.6%) and five minor (1.0%) MANTA device-related vascular complications. There was no patient death related to these adverse events. Female gender, vessel angulation at the puncture site, and at least moderate calcification of the dorsal vessel segment were identified as independent predictors for major complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The MANTA device is a feasible option for vascular closure of large bore arteriotomies in patients undergoing TF TAVI or other percutaneous transfemoral interventions. Furthermore, we have identified novel predictors for device failure/complications that should be taken into account for selection of the appropriate closure device. To our knowledge, this report is one of the largest case series analyzing the use of the MANTA VCD.

Bleeding Events After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: JACC State-of-the-Art Review

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has gained over time a major reduction in procedural complications. Despite this, clinically relevant bleeding still occurs in a non-negligible proportion of patients and adversely affects prognosis. Patients with severe aortic stenosis are at heightened risk for spontaneous bleeding due to advanced age and a high comorbidity burden. Also, procedural factors and antithrombotic management contribute to define individual bleeding susceptibility. Bleeding prevention represents an emerging area for improving patient care. Because of the tight hemorrhagic/ischemic balance, a tailored approach based on individual bleeding-risk profile, such as a less invasive antithrombotic regimen or appropriate diagnostic preprocedural evaluation, should be pursued to avoid bleeding events. This review aims to provide an in-depth overview of bleeding events in the TAVR field, including definitions, timing and the extent of risk, and clinical impact, as well as updates on antithrombotic management and its potential influence on bleeding complications.

Comparison of plug-based versus suture-based vascular closure for large-bore arterial access: a collaborative meta-analysis of observational and randomized studies

BACKGROUND

Large-bore arteriotomies can be percutaneously closed with suture-based or plug-based vascular closure device (VCD) strategies. The efficacy of both techniques remains controversial.

AIMS

We conducted a meta-analysis of comparative studies between both VCD strategies, focusing on the most commonly applied VCDs (MANTA and ProGlide).

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Google scholar for observational studies (OS) and randomized controlled trials (RCT) comparing vascular closure with the MANTA-based and the ProGlide-based technique. The principal endpoint of this analysis was access-site related vascular complications. Both study types were analyzed separately.

RESULTS

Access-site related vascular complications were less frequent after vascular closure with the MANTA technique in the analysis of OS (RR 0.61 [95%CI 0.43-0.89], p = 0.01, I² = 0%), but more frequent in the analysis of RCT data (RR 1.70 [95%CI 1.16-2.51], p = 0.01, I² = 0%). Both data sets provided no significant difference between the VCD techniques in terms of overall bleeding events (OS: RR 0.57 [95%CI 0.32-1.02], p = 0.06, I² = 70%; and RCT: RR 1.37 [95%CI 0.82-2.28], p = 0.23, I² = 30%). RCT data showed that endovascular stenting or vascular surgery due to VCD failure occurred more often after MANTA application (RR 3.53 [95%CI 1.07-11.33], p = 0.04, I² = 0%).

CONCLUSIONS

While OS point to favorable outcomes for large-bore vascular closure with the MANTA-based technique, RCT data show that this strategy is associated with more access-site related vascular complications as well as endovascular stenting or vascular surgery due to device failure compared with the ProGlide-based technique.

Selection of Vascular Closure Devices in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

Various vascular closure devices (VCDs) are commonly used for percutaneous transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). However, superiority and safety profile among them remain unclear. We compared periprocedural complications among various VCDs in patients undergoing TAVR. PubMed and EMBASE were searched through January 2022 to identify clinical studies comparing any 2 VCDs of Prostar, Proglide and MANTA in patients who underwent TAVR. Studies using surgical cut-down or alternative access other than transfemoral approach were excluded. We analyzed the odds ratios (ORs) of vascular complications (VC), bleeding, acute kidney injury and all-cause mortality using a network meta-analysis. All outcomes were defined by Valve Academic Research Consortium 2 criteria. Two randomized controlled trials and 15 observational studies were identified, yielding a total of 11,344 patients including Prostar (n = 4499), Proglide (n = 5705), or MANTA group (n = 1140). The rates of major VC and life-threatening and major bleeding were significantly lower in Proglide compared to Prostar (OR [95 % CI] = 0.54 [0.32-0.89], 0.68 [0.52-0.90], and 0.49 [0.26-0.95], respectively). There was no significant difference in major VC and bleeding between Proglide and MANTA groups. Proglide was associated with a lower rate of acute kidney injury (0.56 [0.34-0.92]) and red blood cell transfusion (0.39 [0.16-0.98]) compared to Prostar. There was no significant difference in additional interventions and 30-day overall mortality among three groups. In this network meta-analysis of VCD in patients undergoing TAVR, MANTA and Proglide had comparable outcomes while Proglide appears superior to Prostar in terms of major VC and bleeding.

Clinical outcomes of MANTA vs suture-based vascular closure devices after transcatheter aortic valve replacement: An updated meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

A recently published randomized control trial showed different results with suture-based vascular closure device (VCD) than plug-based VCD in patients undergoing transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The learning curve for MANTA device is steep, while the learning curve for suture based VCD is shallow as the devices are quite different. In this meta-analysis, we have compared suture-based (ProGlide and Prostar XL) vs plug-based VCDs (MANTA).

METHODS

We performed a meta-analysis of all published studies (using PubMed/Medline and Cochrane databases) reporting the clinical outcome of plug-based vs suture-based VCDs in transfemoral TAVR patients.

RESULTS

We included nine studies with a total of 2865 patients (plug-based n = 1631, suture-based n = 1234). There was no significant difference in primary outcome of all bleeding when using plug-based as opposed to suture-based VCDs (RR 1.14 [0.62-2.06] I² = 72%). There was no significant difference in the incidence of secondary outcomes between two groups including major life threatening bleeding (RR 1.16 [0.38-3.58] I² = 65%), major vascular complications (RR 0.84 [0.35-2.00] I² = 55%), minor vascular complications (RR 1.05 [0.56-1.95] I² = 42%), pseudo aneurysm (RR 1.84 [0.11-29.98] I² = 44%), stenosis-dissection (RR 0.98 [0.66-1.47] I² = 0%), VCD failure (RR 1.71 [0.96-3.04] I² = 0%), and blood transfusion (RR 1.01 [0.38-2.71], I² = 61%).

CONCLUSION

Large bore arteriotomy closure with plug-based VCD was not superior to suture-based VCDs in this transfemoral TAVR population. There was very frequent use of secondary VCDs in suture-based VCD group which is not practical when using MANTA. Additional high-powered studies are required to determine the safety and efficacy of MANTA device.

Vascular management during transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), as an alternative to open heart surgery, has been established as the standard therapy for patients with severe aortic valve stenosis. Vascular access management, the first step in a TAVR procedure, should be managed properly. Moreover, the transfemoral and alternatives such as the transaxillary/subclavian, transcarotid, transapical, and transcaval approaches are considered access routes during TAVR. More than 90% of cases can be treated via the transfemoral approach in the current TAVR era, whereas other approaches should be considered in patients in whom the transfemoral approach is not suitable. Vascular complications regardless of access route differences are a specific issue of TAVR caused by the use of large sheaths. With the increased number of TAVR cases, we must manage vascular complications and decrease the morbidity and mortality rates associated with TAVR procedures. Thus, this study aimed to review the vascular complications during TAVR and summarize their prognosis, prevention, and adequate management.

Comparison of percutaneous closure systems for large bore vascular access sites in endovascular procedures

Backgrounds

The vascular closure device (VCD) is a medical device used for achieving hemostasis of vascular access sites greater than 8 Fr. We compared complications after placement of Perclose ProGlide (Abbott Vascular, USA), a percutaneous suture-mediated closure system, with MANTA VCD (Teleflex Vascular, USA), a collagen-based closure device.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study analyzed procedures performed between 2016 and 2021. We compared the incidence of bleeding complications according to the Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC) and Valve Academic Research Consortium-3 (VARC-3) criteria. The comparison was made between two cohorts of patients: in the first, vascular access sites were closed with a double Perclose ProGlide system, and in the second with an 18 Fr MANTA VCD.

Results

A total of 189 patients were included in the study, out of which 63% were male and 37% were female, with a median age of 79 (72-83) years. All devices were used for femoral arterial access closure. A double Perclose ProGlide was used in 91 (48%) patients, while MANTA VCD was used in 98 patients (52%). The distribution of patients by VARC-3 and BARC bleeding criteria differs between groups (p = 0.017). A significantly higher incidence of VARC 1 (14% vs. 4%; p = 0.020) and BARC 1-2 (14% vs. 4%; p = 0.020) complications in the Perclose ProGlide cohort was observed. VARC 3 (1% vs. 5%; p = 0.213) and BARC 3b (1% vs. 5%; p = 0.213) complications showed higher, but statistically non-significant rates of major bleeding complications in the MANTA VCD cohort. The need for subsequent surgical revision did not show a significant difference between the cohorts (2% vs. 6%; p = 0.281).

Conclusion

The Perclose ProGlide cohort was associated with a significantly higher rate of milder complications. MANTA VCD cohort had a higher rate of major bleeding complications, requiring more complex treatment with a potentially larger impact on quality of life.

Strategies for Reducing Vascular and Bleeding Risk for Percutaneous Left Ventricular Assist Device-supported High-risk Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

In patients at high risk for haemodynamic instability during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), practitioners are increasingly opting for prophylactic mechanical circulatory support, such as the Impella® heart pump (Abiomed, Danvers, MA, USA). Though Impella-supported high-risk PCI (HRPCI) ensures haemodynamic stability during the PCI procedure, access-related complication rates have varied significantly in published studies. Reported variability in complication rates relates to many factors, including anticoagulation practices, access and closure strategy, post-procedure care and variations in event definitions. This article aims to outline optimal strategies to minimize vascular and bleeding complications during Impella-supported HRPCI based on previously identified clinical, procedural and postprocedural risk factors. Practices to reduce complications include femoral skills training, standardized protocols to optimize access, closure, anticoagulation management and post-procedural care, as well as the application of techniques and technological advances. Protocols integrating these strategies to mitigate access-related bleeding and vascular complications for Impella-supported procedures can markedly limit vascular access risk as a barrier to appropriate large-bore mechanical circulatory support use in HRPCI.

Feasibility of transcaval access TAVI in morbidly obese patients: A single-center experience

OBJECTIVES

We report a single-center experience in utilizing the transcaval-access transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) as an alternative approach in morbidly obese patients.

BACKGROUND

Morbidly obese patients present frequently for TAVI. Transfemoral arterial access TAVI in these patients is technically challenging due to deep arterial access, resulting in a higher risk of vascular complications. Transcaval access TAVI is increasingly used in patients with prohibitive iliofemoral arterial access.

METHODS

We used the transcaval approach for eight morbidly obese patients who had otherwise technically feasible femoral arterial access. This technique provides an alternative arterial access point that potentially circumvents some of the challenges relating to femoral arterial access.

RESULTS

We report eight morbidly obese patients with a mean body mass index of 42.3 ± 6.2 kg/m² who underwent transcaval access TAVI at our center (mean EuroScore II 2.47 ± 1.83%). The patient mean age was 70.3 ± 9.8 years; six were female. All eight patients underwent a successful and uncomplicated procedure. The median time to discharge was 2 days and all patients were alive at 30 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Transcaval access TAVI is a feasible alternative for morbidly obese patients and may reduce vascular complications. Further data are required to evaluate the safety of this approach.

A 20-year journey in transcatheter aortic valve implantation: Evolution to current eminence

Since the first groundbreaking procedure in 2002, transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has revolutionized the management of aortic stenosis (AS). Through striking developments in pertinent equipment and techniques, TAVI has now become the leading therapeutic strategy for aortic valve replacement in patients with severe symptomatic AS. The procedure streamlining from routine use of conscious sedation to a single arterial access approach, the newly adapted implantation techniques, and the introduction of novel technologies such as intravascular lithotripsy and the refinement of valve-bioprosthesis devices along with the accumulating experience have resulted in a dramatic reduction of complications and have improved associated outcomes that are now considered comparable or even superior to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). These advances have opened the road to the use of TAVI in younger and lower-risk patients and up-to-date data from landmark studies have now established the outstanding efficacy and safety of TAVI in patients with low-surgical risk impelling the most recent ESC guidelines to propose TAVI, as the main therapeutic strategy for patients with AS aged 75 years or older. In this article, we aim to summarize the most recent advances and the current clinical aspects involving the use of TAVI, and we also attempt to highlight impending concerns that need to be further addressed.

Dual ProGlide versus ProGlide and FemoSeal for vascular access haemostasis after transcatheter aortic valve implantation

BACKGROUND

Large-bore arteriotomy for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) requires percutaneous vascular closure devices, but real-world data comparing different closure strategies are limited.

AIMS

We sought to compare a dual ProGlide strategy vs a combination of one ProGlide and one FemoSeal for vascular closure after TAVI.

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed 874 propensity score-matched patients undergoing TAVI at the Munich University Hospital from August 2018 to October 2020. From August 2018 to August 2019, a dual ProGlide strategy was used for vascular closure. From October 2019 to October 2020, a combination of one ProGlide and one FemoSeal was used. The primary endpoint was defined as access-related major vascular complications or bleeding ≥Type 2 according to Valve Academic Research Consortium 3 criteria.

RESULTS

Patients in the dual ProGlide group (n=437) had a higher incidence of the primary endpoint than patients treated with one ProGlide and one FemoSeal (n=437; 11.4% vs 3.0%; p<0.001). Furthermore, they had a higher rate of closure device failure (2.7% vs 0.9%; p=0.044) and more often required unplanned surgery or endovascular treatment (3.9% vs 0.9%; p=0.004). The incidence of death did not differ significantly between groups (3.4% vs 1.6%; p=0.08).

CONCLUSIONS

A combined ProGlide and FemoSeal strategy might have the potential to reduce access-related vascular complications following TAVI.

Position Statement on Vascular Access Safety for Percutaneous Devices in AMI Complicated by Cardiogenic Shock

In the United States, the frequency of using percutaneous mechanical circulatory support devices for acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock is increasing. These devices require large-bore vascular access to provide left, right, or biventricular cardiac support, frequently under urgent/emergent circumstances. Significant technical and logistical variability exists in device insertion, care, and removal in the cardiac catheterization laboratory and in the cardiac intensive care unit. This variability in practice may contribute to adverse outcomes observed in centers that receive patients with cardiogenic shock, who are at higher risk for circulatory insufficiency, venous stasis, bleeding, and arterial hypoperfusion. In this position statement, we aim to: 1) describe the public health impact of bleeding and vascular complications in cardiogenic shock; 2) highlight knowledge gaps for vascular safety and provide a roadmap for a regulatory perspective necessary for advancing the field; 3) propose a minimum core set of process elements, or "vascular safety bundle"; and 4) develop a possible study design for a pragmatic trial platform to evaluate which structured approach to vascular access drives most benefit and prevents vascular and bleeding complications in practice.

Comparison of Suture-Based and Collagen-Based Vascular Closure Devices for Large Bore Arteriotomies-A Meta-Analysis of Bleeding and Vascular Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Large bore access procedures rely on vascular closure devices to minimize access site complications. Suture-based vascular closure devices (S-VCD) such as ProGlide and ProStar XL have been readily used, but recently, newer generation collagen-based vascular closure devices (C-VCD) such as MANTA have been introduced. Data on comparisons of these devices are limited.

METHODS

PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane were searched for articles on vascular closure devices using keywords, ("Vascular closure devices" OR "MANTA" OR "ProStar XL" OR "ProGlide") AND ("outcomes") that resulted in a total of 875 studies. Studies were included if bleeding or vascular complications as defined by Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 were compared between the two types of VCDs. The event level data were pooled across trials to calculate the Odds Ratio (OR) with 95% CI, and analysis was done with Review Manager 5.4 using random effects model.

RESULTS

Pooled analyses from these nine studies resulted in a total of 3410 patients, out of which 2855 were available for analysis. A total of 1229 received C-VCD and 1626 received S- VCD. Among the patients who received C-VCD, the bleeding complications (major and minor) were similar to patients who received S-VCD ((OR: 0.70 (0.35-1.39), p = 0.31, I² = 55%), OR: 0.92 (0.53-1.61), p = 0.77, I² = 65%)). The vascular complications (major and minor) in patients who received C-VCD were also similar to patients who received S-VCD ((OR: 1.01 (0.48-2.12), p = 0.98, I² = 52%), (OR: 0.90 (0.62-1.30), p = 0.56, I² = 35%)).

CONCLUSIONS

Bleeding and vascular complications after large bore arteriotomy closure with collagen-based vascular closure devices are similar to suture-based vascular closure devices.

Comparison of MANTA vs ProGlide Vascular Closure Device and 30-Day Outcomes in Transfemoral Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

Background

Vascular complications (VCs) after transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) have an increased mortality risk, and vascular closure device (VCD) use is mandatory. The percutaneous MANTA VCD (Teleflex) is a novel collagen-based technology for closure of large-bore arteriotomies. We compared the MANTA VCD with the suture-based ProGlide VCD (Abbott Vascular).

Methods

A retrospective review was performed on all consecutive patients who underwent transfemoral TAVI in our center from January 1, 2015, to February 28, 2021, and 30-day outcomes were recorded. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) were cardiac death, disabling stroke, and/or major VCs. Access site–related VCs were VCs related to the access site vessel from which the transcatheter valve was introduced and advanced.

Results

The MANTA VCD was used in 99 patients and the ProGlide in 224. There was 4.0% MACE in the MANTA group and 4.9% in the ProGlide group (P = .999). Overall VCs were 10.1% vs 7.6%, major VCs were 3.0% vs 2.2%, and minor VCs 7.1% vs 5.4%(P = .753). Access site–related VCs were 5.1% vs 5.8% in the (P = .999), and periprocedural vascular surgical intervention was needed in 6.1% of the MANTA group vs 2.2% of the ProGlide group (P = .099).

Conclusion

There was no significant difference in MACE, mortality, cardiovascular mortality, VCs, access site–related VCs, periprocedural vascular surgical interventions, bleeding, or transfusion rate between the 2 groups. The MANTA VCD group had more periprocedural vascular surgical interventions which did not reach statistical significance.

Large-bore arterial access closure after transcatheter aortic valve replacement: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

Aims

As the indications to transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) expand to patients at increasingly lower risk, procedure-related vascular and bleeding complications events must be minimized. We aimed to evaluate the impact of different large-bore arterial access closure devices on clinical outcomes after TAVR.

Methods and results

We searched for papers that reported outcomes according to the type of vascular closure device/technique used after TAVR and performed a Bayesian network meta-analysis (NMA). Fifteen studies involving 9259 patients who underwent access site closure using PROSTAR™ XL percutaneous vascular surgical system (Abbott Vascular, Santa Clara, CA, USA), Perclose ProGlide™ suture-mediated closure system (Abbott), or MANTA^TM vascular closure device (Teleflex, Morrisville, NC, USA) were included. NMA showed MANTA to have the highest likelihood of reducing a primary composite endpoint of intra-hospital death, major vascular complications, and major or life-threatening bleedings [surface under the cumulative ranking curve analysis (SUCRA) 94.8%], but this was mitigated when only randomized clinical trials and propensity-matched cohorts were included (SUCRA 56.1%). The ProGlide showed the highest likelihood to reduce major or life-threatening bleedings, especially with increasing procedural complexity, and the MANTA device to reduce major and minor vascular complications. The ProStar XL device performed poorly in all explored endpoints.

Conclusion

Available evidence summarized through a NMA shows that ProGlide and MANTA devices appear to be both valid vascular closure devices globally and to be the best options to minimize vascular complications and reduce bleeding in patients undergoing TAVR, respectively.

Ultrasound-Guided Versus Conventional MANTA Vascular Closure Device Deployment After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

Despite the development of device technology and operators' experience, access site vascular complications (VCs) remain one of the major concerns after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). MANTA (Teleflex, Wayne, Pennsylvania) is a large-bore vascular closure device (VCD) with promising incidence of VC. Previously, we demonstrated that the ultrasound-guided MANTA (US-MANTA) technique further improved the outcomes compared with conventional MANTA (C-MANTA) without ultrasound guidance. The present study was established to prove the effectiveness of the technique in a larger population. In this study, we included 1,150 patients (335 patients with C-MANTA and 815 with US-MANTA) who received MANTA after TAVI from April 2017 to September 2021. The primary endpoint was MANTA-related VC. Overall VC, VCD failure, and bleeding complications were also assessed based on the Valve Academic Research Consortium 3 criteria. MANTA-related VC occurred in 12.5% in the C-MANTA group and 6.8% in the US-MANTA group (p = 0.001). VCD failure rate were 7.5% and 3.9%, respectively (p = 0.012). Valve Academic Research Consortium 3 major and minor VC were more frequent in C-MANTA group (major: 7.8% vs 4.4%, p = 0.023; minor: 8.1% vs 4.4%, p = 0.022). Multivariate analysis revealed US-MANTA as the negative predictor of MANTA-related VC (odds ratio 0.57, 95% confidence interval 0.36 to 0.89, p = 0.013). However, subgroup analysis showed the efficacy of the US-MANTA technique was limited to the patients without severely calcified puncture site (P_interaction = 0.048). In conclusion, the US-MANTA technique was an effective strategy to reduce VC after transfemoral TAVI compared with C-MANTA.

Pledget-assisted hemostasis to fix residual access-site bleedings after double pre-closure technique

BACKGROUND

The use of pre-closure suture-based devices represents a widely access-site hemostasis technique in percutaneous transfemoral transcatheter-aortic-valve-replacement (TF-TAVR); yet this technique is associated with the risk of a device failure that may result in clinically relevant residual bleeding. Thus, a bailout intervention is needed. So far, the best management of pre-closure device failure has not been recognized.

AIM

To report the first clinical results obtained using a novel bailout hemostasis technique for patients with double suture-based vascular closure device failure in the setting of TF-TAVR.

METHODS

We developed a “pledget-assisted hemostasis” technique to manage residual access-site bleeding. This consists of the insertion of a surgical, non-absorbable, polytetrafluoroethylene pledget over the sutures of the two ProGlide (Abbott Vascular, CA, United States). The ProGlide’s knot-pushers are used to push down the pledget and the hand-made slipknot to seal the femoral artery leak. This technique was used as a bailout strategy in patients undergoing TF-TAVR with a systematic double pre-closure technique. Post-procedural access-site angiography was systematically performed. In-hospital complications were systematically detected and classified according to Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 criteria.

RESULTS

Out of 136 consecutive patients who underwent TF-TAVR, 15 patients (mean age 80.0 ± 7.2 years, 66.7% female) with access-site bleeding after double pre-closure technique failure were treated by pledget-assisted hemostasis. In the majority of patients, 16F sheath was used (n = 12; 80%). In 2 cases (13%), a peripheral balloon was also inflated in the iliac artery to limit blood loss during pledget preparation. Angiography-confirmed hemostasis (primary efficacy endpoint) was achieved in all patients. After the procedure, 1 patient required blood transfusion (2 units), and no other bleeding or major ischemic complication was noticed.

CONCLUSION

The “pledget assisted hemostasis” might be considered as a possible bailout technique to treat patients with residual access site bleeding. Further studies are needed to compare this approach with other bail-out techniques.

Single versus double Perclose techniques for vascular closure during transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement

INTRODUCTION

The preferred approach for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is transfemoral. There has been widespread adoption of the Perclose Proglide^TM device for vascular closure. Typically, two devices are deployed before upsizing the access sheath in the "preclose technique." Prior investigations have compared the use of a single device versus double device technique, but none have shown significant clinical benefit to either approach.

METHODS

Five hundred and six patients underwent transfemoral TAVR (TF-TAVR) with single or double Perclose devices for vascular closure from July 2015 to February 2020. A retrospective review was conducted, and propensity-matched analyses were used to account for differences in baseline characteristics.

RESULTS

In the matched analysis, there were 251 patients in the single Perclose group and 238 in the double. There was a statistically significant improvement in overall procedural success using the single closure device (94.6% vs. 88.5%, p = 0.009) This was defined as intraprocedural hemostatic control, lack of contrast extravasation, arterial dissection, occlusion, or stenosis >50% in the final crossover angiogram, as well as unimpaired limb perfusion without claudication throughout the index hospitalization. There was also a significant improvement in arterial dissection rates (0.6% vs. 4.6%, p = 0.004), stenosis >50% (1.3% vs. 4.4%, p = 0.028), and Valve Academic Research Consortium major vascular complications (1.8% vs. 4.9%, p = 0.038).

CONCLUSION

A single Perclose device is a safe means of vascular closure during TF-TAVR and may have important clinical benefits compared to the commonly used two-device technique.

Vascular Closure: the ABC's

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Vascular access and closure is a key part of endovascular procedures, and access site-related complications are an independent predictor of adverse procedural outcomes. The purpose of this review is to discuss the methods of vascular closure including manual compression, vascular closure devices (VCDs) for both arterial and venous arteriotomies, their mechanisms, and access site-related complications.

RECENT FINDINGS

Various VCDs have been approved over the last three decades. These devices have different mechanisms to achieve hemostasis and are generally categorized into active and passive approximators. Studies have largely found that they are non-inferior to manual compression. Uncomplicated vascular closure is pertinent to avoid adverse procedure-related outcomes. The emergence of VCDs has reduced time to hemostasis, facilitating early ambulation and discharge and reducing hospitalization cost with comparable complication rate to manual compression. Nonetheless, they should be used in favorable vascular anatomy and are not intended to reduce complications.

Iliofemoral tortuosity increases the risk of access site-related complications after aortic valve implantation and plug-based access site closure

Background

Access-site-related complications are often related to high-risk anatomy and technical pitfalls and impair the outcomes of transfemoral aortic valve implantations (TAVIs). Calcification and tortuosity are widely recognized risk factors, and their impact on procedural planning is left to the implanting experts’ discretion. To facilitate decision-making, we introduced a quantitative measure for iliofemoral tortuosity and assessed its predictive value for access-site-related vascular and bleeding complications.

Methods

We performed a single-centre prospective cohort study of consecutive, percutaneous transfemoral TAVI performed between April 2019 and March 2020. Medical history and all-cause mortality were extracted from the electronic patient files. Arterial anatomy and calcifications were evaluated using 3mensio Structural Heart software. The primary outcome was access-site-related vascular or bleeding complications.

Results

In this elderly, intermediate-risk population, we registered the primary outcome in 43 patients (39%), and major access-site complications in 10 patients (9.2%). Complete hemostasis was achieved in 77 patients (70.6%), by the application of the MANTA plug alone. In the group with access-site-related adverse events, compared with the group without, the tortuosity index was higher median (26% interquartile range [IQR 18%-33%] vs median 19% [IQR 13%-29%], respectively; P = 0.012), as was maximal angulation median (50° [IQR 40°-59°] vs median 43° [IQR 36°-51°], respectively; P = 0.026) were higher. Both variables had a significant effect on our primary outcome, with odds ratios (OR) of 3.1 (tortuosity, P = 0.005) and 2.6 (angulation, P = 0.020). The degree of angulation was a predictor of major complications too (odds ratio 7 [1.4-34.8]; P = 0.017).

Conclusions

Steeper angles and greater arterial elongation increase the risk of vascular and bleeding complications after femoral TAVI with the utilization of a plug-based closure device.

Validation of the VARC-3 Technical Success Definition in Patients Undergoing TAVR

OBJECTIVES

The authors aimed to investigate the rates, predictors, and prognostic impact of technical success in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

BACKGROUND

The Valve Academic Research Consortium-3 (VARC-3) has introduced a composite endpoint to assess the immediate technical success of TAVR.

METHODS

In the prospective Bern TAVR registry, patients were stratified according to VARC-3 technical success. Technical failure differentiated between vascular and cardiac complications.

RESULTS

In a total of 1,624 patients undergoing TAVR between March 2012 and December 2019, 1,435 (88.4%) patients had technical success. Among 189 patients with technical failure, 140 (8.6%) had vascular and 49 (3.0%) had cardiac technical failure. Female, larger device landing zone calcium volume, and the early term of the study period were associated with an increased risk for cardiac technical failure, whereas higher body mass index and the use of the Prostar (Abbott Vascular Inc) MANTA (Teleflex) (compared with the ProGlide [Abbott Vascular Inc]) were predictors of vascular technical failure. In multivariable analysis, technical failure conferred an increased risk for cardiovascular death or stroke (HR: 2.01; 95% CI: 1.37-2.95). The adverse effect remained when stratified to cardiac (HR: 2.62; 95% CI: 1.38-4.97) or vascular technical failure (HR: 1.95; 95% CI: 1.28-2.95) and limited to the periprocedural period (0-30 days: HR: 3.42 [95% CI: 2.05-5.69]; 30-360 days: HR: 1.36 [95% CI: 0.79-2.35]; P for interaction = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Technical failure according to VARC-3 was observed in 1 of 10 patients undergoing TAVR and was associated with a 2-fold increased risk of the composite outcome at 1 year after TAVR. (Swiss TAVI Registry; NCT01368250).

Real-World Experience With a Large Bore Vascular Closure Device During TAVI Procedure: Features and Predictors of Access-Site Vascular Complications

Backgrounds

Among vascular closure devices (VCDs), the novel collagen plug-based MANTA VCD is the first designed for large bore percutaneous access. We aimed to assess the features and predictors of access-site vascular complications in an unselected trans-femoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TF-TAVR) population.

Methods

Patients undergoing large bore arteriotomy closure with 18F MANTA VCD following TF-TAVR at a large tertiary care center from September 2019 to January 2021 were prospectively analyzed. Primary Outcome was the MANTA VCD access-site-related complications according to Valve Academic Research Consortium-3 (VARC) definitions. Its incidence and predictors were evaluated.

Results

Eighty-eight patients (median age 82 years, 48% male, 3.3 median Society of Thoracic Surgeons score) undergoing TF-TAVR were included, mostly (63%) treated with a self-expandable device and with outer diameter sizes varied from 18F to 24-F. MANTA VCD technical success rate was 98%, while 10 patients (11%) experienced MANTA VCD access-site vascular complications which included 8% of minor complications and only to 2% of major events resulting in VARC type ≥2 bleeding. Vessel occlusion/stenosis (60%), perforation (20%), and pseudoaneurysm/dissection/hematoma (20%) occurred, but all were managed without surgical treatment. Independent predictors of failure were age (p = 0.04), minimum common femoral artery diameter (CFA) (p < 0.01), sheath-to-femoral-artery ratio (SFAR) (p < 0.01), and a lower puncture height (p = 0.03). A CFA diameter <7.1 mm with a SFAR threshold of 1.01 were associated with VCD failure.

Conclusions

In a more comers TF-TAVR population, MANTA VCD was associated with reassuring rates of technical success and major access-site vascular complications. Avoiding lower vessel size and less puncture site distance to CFA bifurcation might further improve outcomes.

Vascular Complications Among Patients Undergoing Trans-femoral Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: Prostar vs ProGlide Parallel Technique

Reliable femoral artery closure devices are essential for the success of trans-femoral Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) procedures. Accordingly, device choice might affect vascular complications and bleeding rates. This was a retrospective analysis, comparing vascular complication rates among patients who underwent trans-femoral TAVI with vascular access closure using either the ProGlide parallel suture or Prostar closure devices. We included 191 patients: 106 were treated with Prostar and 85 with ProGlide. The ProGlide group had higher rate of diabetes, chronic kidney disease, peripheral arterial disease, and significantly smaller femoral arteries that were treated via larger sheaths. Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC)-2 major complications were similar between the groups. (4.7% for ProGlide vs 3.8% for Prostar, P=1), with similar incidence of closure device failure (2 vs 3, P=1). No differences were found after univariant analysis and propensity-score matching in the incidence of major and minor bleeding nor in the rate of in-hospital mortality between ProGlide and Prostar (4.7 vs 2.8%, P=.7, 1.2 vs 2.8%, P=.63, and 1.2 vs .0%, P=.45, respectively). Parallel suture technique using two ProGlide sutures showed comparable rates of vascular complications to the Prostar closure device in higher risk population of TAVI patients.

A Review of the Impella Devices

The use of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) to provide acute haemodynamic support for cardiogenic shock or to support high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention (HRPCI) has grown over the past decade. There is currently no consensus on best practice regarding its use in these two distinct indications. Impella heart pumps (Abiomed) are intravascular microaxial blood pumps that provide temporary MCS during HRPCI or in the treatment of cardiogenic shock. The authors outline technical specifications of the individual Impella heart pumps and their accompanying technology, the Automated Impella Controller and SmartAssist, their indications for use and patient selection, implantation techniques, device weaning and escalation, closure strategies, anticoagulation regimens, complications, future directions and upcoming trials.