Transcatheter aortic-valve replacement (TAVR) appears to reduce rates of death and hospitalization in patients with severe aortic stenosis who are not suitable candidates for surgery, according to findings from a 2-year investigation. The mortality rate at 2 years was 43.3% among those who underwent TAVR, compared with a 68.0% rate for those who received standard therapy. Rates of rehospitalization were 35.0% for TAVR and 72.5% for standard therapy. At 2 years, TAVR was associated with sustained decreases in symptoms and improved valve hemodynamics.
Abstract: New England Journal of Medicine, May 3, 2012.
