Incidence and Implications of Valve and Leaflet Thrombosis After TAVR

A large observational study demonstrates that thrombosis is common and, possibly, treatable with warfarin.

Leaflet and valve thrombosis was recently reported in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) prostheses, but little is known about its incidence, associated factors, and clinical effects. In a Danish study, investigators analyzed data on 405 consecutive patients with a balloon-expandable prosthesis who had undergone both multidetector computed tomography (which can identify thrombus) and transesophageal echocardiography (which can evaluate leaflet thickening) 1 to 3 months after TAVR. Post-TAVR antiplatelet and anticoagulation therapy was given at the treating physician's discretion.

The overall incidence of valve or leaflet thrombus was 7% (28 patients). However, valve obstruction was observed in only five patients, and patients with…

Reviewing Author

Howard C. Herrmann, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardAffluent Medical; Artedrone; Caranx; Johnson & Johnson; Medtronic; Prolifagen; Wells Fargo

EquityMicrointerventional Devices, Inc.

RoyaltiesUniversity of Pennsylvania

Grant/Research SupportAbbott Vascular; Edwards Lifesciences; Johnson & Johnson; Medtronic

Editorial BoardsCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions; Journal of the American College of Cardiology; Circulation: Cardiovascular Interventions; JACC Cardiovascular Interventions; JACC Case Reports; JSCAI

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesHeart Valve Collaboratory (Scientific Committee Member, Chair of the Publications Committee)