New Intercostal Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Access: No Touch

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Interventional Cardiology

Background:

• Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a common procedure for aortic stenosis.
• Standard TAVR access routes include transfemoral and transapical approaches.
• Alternative access routes are being explored to improve procedural safety and applicability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the small intercostal approach as a novel access route for TAVR.
• To evaluate the safety and feasibility of this alternative TAVR technique.

Main Methods:

• The study focuses on the small intercostal approach for TAVR.
• This method aims to avoid contact with ribs and the sternum during access.

Main Results:

• The small intercostal approach is presented as a viable alternative for TAVR.
• This technique allows for safe TAVR without interfering with the ribs or sternum.

Conclusions:

• The small intercostal approach represents a safe and effective alternative TAVR access route.
• This method expands the options for TAVR procedures, potentially benefiting a wider patient population.