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Updated: Mar 11, 2026

Technique and Patient Selection Criteria of Right Anterior Mini-Thoracotomy for Minimal Access Aortic Valve Replacement
Published on: March 26, 2018
[Is transcatheter aortic valve implantation superior to surgical valve replacement?]
1Radboudumc, afd. Geriatrie, Nijmegen.
Abstract:
Severe aortic valve stenosis is treated traditionally with surgical valve replacement. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has experienced a rapid development in the last decade. Indications for TAVI have been broadened from inoperable and high surgical risk patients to intermediate-risk patients. Mortality rates are identical after TAVI compared with surgical valve replacement in intermediate-risk patients. However, mortality is not an appropriate outcome measure for a frail older person. Quality of life, autonomy and functioning independently are probably more suitable outcomes in this frail older population. Moreover, TAVI costs are high. TAVI is not appropriate for all elderly patients but depends on the individual patients' criteria and wishes.
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