Valvular Heart Disease in Patients ≥80 Years of Age

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Geriatrics
• Medical Technology

Background:

• The octogenarian population is rapidly growing, leading to a higher prevalence of valvular heart disease (VHD).
• VHD in the elderly presents unique challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes compared to younger populations.
• Untreated VHD, both stenosis and regurgitation, is linked to poor prognoses in older adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the epidemiology, etiology, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for VHD in octogenarians.
• To highlight the growing role and advancements of transcatheter therapies for VHD in the elderly.
• To discuss the impact of VHD on quality of life and survival in the oldest old.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on valvular heart disease in patients aged 80 and older.
• Analysis of current and emerging transcatheter treatment options, including transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).
• Examination of epidemiological data and clinical outcomes related to VHD in the elderly.

Main Results:

• Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is increasingly utilized in octogenarians, demonstrating significant momentum.
• Numerous novel transcatheter devices for other valvular lesions are under development and in early clinical trials.
• Surgical interventions for VHD in the elderly are associated with high mortality due to comorbidities, making less invasive options attractive.

Conclusions:

• Transcatheter technologies represent a significant advancement in managing VHD in the octogenarian population.
• The choice of treatment for elderly patients with VHD must consider comorbidities and quality of life.
• Continued research and development of transcatheter devices are crucial for improving VHD outcomes in the aging demographic.