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Published on: April 25, 2014
2020 ACC Expert Consensus Decision Pathway on Management of Conduction Disturbances in Patients Undergoing
Insights
Managing heart conduction issues after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) lacks clear guidelines. This expert consensus provides a decision pathway for optimal patient care and pacemaker use post-TAVR.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Interventional Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Cardiac conduction disturbances are a common complication after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).
- Lack of high-quality randomized controlled trials and evolving TAVR technology contribute to management challenges.
- Existing guidelines offer limited detail on pacing strategies post-TAVR.
Framework:
- This document proposes an evidence-based expert consensus decision pathway for managing conduction disturbances following TAVR.
- The pathway integrates current data, clinical experience, and expert opinion to address management gaps.
Implementation:
- Reviews existing data and clinical practices for post-TAVR conduction disturbances.
- Provides a structured approach to decision-making, including observation, electrophysiological testing, and pacemaker implantation.
- Addresses the interplay between TAVR, valvular heart disease, and cardiovascular implantable electrical devices.
Implications:
- Aims to establish best practices for TAVR patient care in the United States.
- Facilitates standardized and optimized management of conduction disturbances, potentially improving patient outcomes.
- Guides clinicians in navigating complex decisions regarding pacing in the post-TAVR setting.
Abstract:
Consensus regarding a reasonable strategy to manage cardiac conduction disturbances after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has been elusive. This is due to the absence of adequately powered, randomized controlled trials; the often transient nature of the conduction disturbances; evolving technologies; and the interplay of cardiology subspecialties involved. In the absence of high-quality trials, numerous practice styles have been developed, and prolonged observation, electrophysiological testing, and pre-emptive pacemaker implantation have been described. Although the 2013 European Society of Cardiology guidelines address pacing post-TAVR, they do not provide in-depth discussion of this topic. Furthermore, a summary and proposed strategy for this problem have not been published by cardiovascular societies in the United States, despite an interest in establishing best practices in TAVR, valvular heart disease, and cardiovascular implantable electrical devices. This document reviews existing data and experience regarding the management of conduction disturbances after TAVR and proposes an evidence-based expert consensus decision pathway for their management. Where evidence is lacking or insufficient, the recommendations herein are based on expert opinion.
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