The benefits of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in "inoperable" patients with severe aortic stenosis were sustained three years following the procedure as measured by all cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, repeat hospitalization and functional status, according to a PARTNER Trial update presented at TCT 2012 on Oct. 24. The study evaluated the clinical outcomes of 358 TAVR patients enrolled in the PARTNER Trial compared to standard therapy at three years. Investigators assessed valve hemodynamics and durability using echocardiography and performed subgroup analyses to better define the impact of comorbidities on outcomes.

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In addition to sustained benefits in terms of mortality and hospital readmissions, the study found that valve durability was demonstrated with no increase in transvalvular gradient or attrition of valve area. Samir R. Kapadia, MD, who presented on behalf of the PARTNER Trial investigators, also noted that detailed analysis of all randomized inoperable patients showed consistent results for all outcomes.

According to Kapadia, without TAVR, mortality is similar irrespective of comorbid illness. "Three year data continue to support the role of TAVR as the standard-of-care for symptomatic patients with aortic stenosis who are not surgical candidates," he said. "These data underscore the importance of patient selection before TAVR and the need for aggressive management of illnesses after TAVR."

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