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Updated: Jun 30, 2026
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Standardized Technique of Aortic Valve Re-implantation for Valve-sparing Aortic Root Replacement
Published on: December 11, 2017
Balloon-Assisted Leaflet Laceration Using Modified UNICORN Technique in Native Valve TAVR
Charishma S Nallapati1, Andres Hughes1, Nadeen Faza1
1Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, Houston, Texas, USA.
JACC. Case Reports
|June 25, 2026
Summary
The novel Undermining iatrogenic coronary obstruction with radiofrequency needle (UNICORN) technique modifies native valves to prevent coronary obstruction during transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). This electrosurgical method preserves coronary access when bulky calcification is present.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Interventional Cardiology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) carries a risk of life-threatening coronary obstruction from displaced calcified native valve leaflets.
- Preventing coronary obstruction is crucial for TAVR success, especially in valve-in-valve procedures.
