Transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is currently indicated for high or prohibitive surgical risk patients with symptomatic calcific aortic stenosis (aortic valve area 2) requiring aortic valve replacement. Current TAVR systems consist of three components: (i) the loading system; (ii) the delivery catheter; and (iii) the bioprosthetic aortic valve. Device evolution and increasing operator experience have led to improved clinical outcomes. This chapter outlines the generic steps involved in performing TAVR. Then, It discusses cardiac and non-cardiac complications associated with TAVR. Meticulous patient selection, procedural techniques, and post-procedure care will reduce these serious events. The chapter also summarizes the clinical outcomes of selected TAVR studies and novel transcatheter aortic valve designs.