Transcatheter aortic valve replacement: The year in review 2017

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Interventional Cardiology
• Cardiac Surgery

Background:

• Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has become a key treatment for aortic stenosis.
• Annual reviews track advancements in TAVR procedures and technologies.
• The 2017 landscape saw significant developments impacting patient selection and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize major transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) studies published in 2017.
• To highlight key findings from pivotal trials and research in TAVR.
• To provide an overview of emerging trends and evidence in TAVR.

Main Methods:

• Review of major randomized controlled trials and observational studies published in 2017.
• Analysis of research focusing on intermediate-risk patients, cerebral protection, and antiplatelet strategies.
• Evaluation of data on newer generation TAVR valve systems.

Main Results:

• The SURTAVI trial solidified TAVR's role in intermediate-risk patients.
• Studies investigated the efficacy and safety of cerebral protection devices during TAVR.
• Research compared single versus dual antiplatelet therapy post-TAVR.
• Newer TAVR valve generations demonstrated continued improvements in performance.

Conclusions:

• Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) demonstrated significant progress in 2017, expanding its clinical utility.
• Cerebral protection and optimized antiplatelet regimens are key areas of ongoing research.
• Advancements in valve technology continue to enhance TAVR safety and effectiveness.