Predicting the future of TAVR: an obituary to open aortic valve replacement?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has become the cornerstone for aortic valve intervention since the first implantation in 2002. Recent advances with novel devices and introduction into lower risk cohorts have been successful. In this review, we discuss the ongoing limitations to transcatheter aortic valve therapy and whether it will replace surgical aortic valve replacement in the foreseeable future.

RECENT FINDINGS: A better understanding of valve durability, high-grade heart block, and stroke post TAVR has led to practice changes that improve patient outcome.

SUMMARY: Although there has been great progress made in treating severe aortic stenosis with TAVR, there are room for improvements before it becomes the default therapy for all patients.