Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) with the edwards SAPIEN XT

Abstract

The new generation of SXT has several advantages over the previous generation of Edwards SAPIEN devices. Among them, the decreased sheath size required for the transfemoral approach has significantly simplified the procedure, increasing the number of patients who can undergo this approach. That said, the availability of both transfemoral and transapical approaches allows the technique to be feasible in the vast majority of patients. Optimal screening and technical proficiency are crucial for a successful and safe procedure. Despite this, sick and fragile elderly patients for whom this technique is largely available create many new challenges for cardiologists and surgeons. Thus, TAVI should be performed by formally trained and proctored, experienced physicians, in centers of multidisciplinary expertise.