Approach of the elderly with severe aortic stenosis

Abstract

Aortic stenosis is the most common valvular disease, its prevalence increases markedly with age and represents an important cause of morbidity and mortality in the elderly. For this reason, a new procedure called transcatheter aortic valve implantation technique (TAVI) has been implemented, which has shown superior results to medical therapy in patients not suitable for surgery. TAVI is the preferred procedure in patients with severe aortic stenosis (EAS) who present a high risk of morbidity and mortality, in which a traditional surgery involves high risk or that are labeled as inoperable. This procedure, in spite of the benefits that it brings to patients, can generate complications, mainly vascular access, cerebrovascular accidents secondary to the procedure and post-implant aortic insufficiency.

Fragility in the elderly represents approximately 7-20%; This risk factor is important because it has been associated with increased morbidity and mortality in patients who have undergone TAVI.