Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: Experience with the Edwards SAPIEN Device

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) with the Edwards SAPIEN valve has been shown to be highly beneficial to patients at high risk or with contraindications to surgical aortic valve replacement. The availability of both transfemoral and transapical approaches allows the technique to be applied in most patients. Optimal screening and technical proficiency are crucial for a successful and safe procedure. The technique poses many technical challenges in sick and fragile elderly patients. Thus, TAVI should remain confined to formally trained and proctored experienced physicians, in centers of expertise offering an optimal multidisciplinary collaboration.