Minimalist approach for percutaneous aortic valve implantation

Background: Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is becoming the standard procedure for high-risk patients requiring aortic valve replacement. This technique has evolved rapidly and the so-called minimalist strategy is gaining worldwide attention, while supporting evidence is still being assembled. Objective: The aim of this study was to compare 30-day outcomes of the minimalist approach (MA) versus the standard approach (SA) for TAVI performed in a single center. Methods: Between September 2009 and February 2018, 303 consecutive TAVI procedures were performed, 229 (75.6%) using the MA and 74 (24.4%) with the SA. Results: Mean age was 79.5 years and both groups had similar characteristics. There were no differences in hypertension, diabetes, smoking habits, previous percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or coronary artery bypass graft surgery, acute myocardial infarction (AMI), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, atrial fibrillation and dialysis. PCI before TAVI (combined procedure) and kidney failure (eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m2) were more common in the SA group. The STS score was similar in both groups. The total duration of the procedure and in-hospital stay were lower in the MA group (125±26 vs. 211±48 minutes; p <0.001, and 4.1 vs. 6.3 days; p=0.01, respectively). There were no differences in mortality (3.9% vs. 1.4%; p=ns), incidence of AMI, stroke, major bleeding requiring transfusion or vascular complications at 30 days. The closure device failed in four patients (one underwent surgical repair and three required a covered stent). Moderate paravalvular leaks (PVL) were more frequent in the SA group (11.8% vs. 23%; p=0.01) but the incidence of severe PVL was similar (1.3% vs. 2.7%). Conclusion: The MA for TAVI proved to be feasible and safe, reducing the procedure duration and in-hospital stay, with 30-day outcomes similar to those of the SA but providing better comfort for the patient.