Impact of Virtual Reality on Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

Accurate preprocedural planning is crucial for a successful transcatheter aortic valve implantation to ensure patient safety and valve longevity. Through 3-dimensional visualization, virtual reality (VR) offers the potential to enhance this process. The study investigated whether the inclusion of VR in preprocedural planning can improve the procedural preparation, impact intraprocedural parameters, and improve short-term patient outcomes.

This randomized, prospective, controlled study included 140 patients who underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation at the University Hospital Duesseldorf between April and August 2024. In the control group, preprocedural planning was based on multislice computed tomography data using 3mensio software, while in the intervention group, it was supplemented with VR software. In addition, interventionalists assessed both tools via a structured questionnaire.

The evaluation did not reveal any relevant differences in patient characteristics. VR was superior to 3mensio software with respect to the 3-dimensional understanding (P<0.001). Similarly, depth perception, visualization of atherosclerotic plaques, and iliofemoral tortuosity were better in the VR group. Both methods were found to be useful and helpful in preparing for the procedure. There were no significant differences in procedural data between the 2 groups. However, the VR group had a lower rate of bleeding at the access site (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the length of hospital stay or postprocedural transthoracic echocardiography data evaluations.

The data show that virtual reality visualization can optimize preparation for the procedure by improving the 3-dimensional understanding of the aortic valve and adjacent structures. The detailed visualization of the access routes can lead to a reduction in periprocedural complications.