Evaluation of calcium loss after transcatheter aortic valve implantation

Abstract

Our results show a significant loss of calcification in all patients after TAVI, with a reduction in the calcification distances to the coronary ostia and the compression of calcification in the area of the device landing zone. The clinical implications of this finding need to be investigated further.

Calcification Characteristics of Low-Flow Low-Gradient Severe Aortic Stenosis in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

“…As previously described, a dedicated software (3mensio Structural Heart 6.0, Bilthoven, Netherlands) was utilized for quantitative image analysis [ 20 ]. First, the centerline of the aortic root and the ascending aorta was drawn semiautomatically.…”

“…Then, the aortic annular plane was defined at the insertion of the aortic leaflets. Calcification characteristics, including calcification volume, mass, and density (Hounsfield units, HU), were assessed semiautomatically for the total aortic valve as well as separately for each leaflet [ 20 ]. To determine aortic valve calcification asymmetry, the maximal difference of both calcification mass and volume between the three aortic cups was calculated ( Figure 1 ).…”