When to Choose Surgery in the Era of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Treatment of severe symptomatic aortic stenosis has undergone significant changes with the advent of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Initially reserved for inoperable patients, these devices have improved; outcomes now rival or outperform surgical treatment. TAVR is recommended for high-risk and certain intermediate-risk patients. As transcatheter aortic valve replacement becomes an option for younger, healthier patients, long-term planning and thoughtful considerations of potential subsequent interventions are paramount. A robust understanding of risks, benefits and expected outcomes with TAVR is critical to provide patients with the best treatment option.