Percutaneous transcatheter aortic valve closure successfully treats left ventricular assist device-associated aortic insufficiency and improves cardiac hemodynamics.

OBJECTIVES: This study sought to assess the effectiveness of a novel percutaneous method to treat left ventricular assist device (LVAD)-associated severe aortic insufficiency (AI) in a series of patients determined to be poor reoperative candidates.

BACKGROUND: The increased use of continuous-flow LVAD in advanced heart failure has led to marked changes in the management of patients with this condition. However, secondary AI can become a significant complication.

METHODS: Five patients with continuous-flow LVAD and severe post-LVAD AI underwent percutaneous transcatheter aortic valve closure from September to October 2011 at a single quaternary care academic medical center. All patients had LVAD implanted as destination therapy. LVAD parameters, hemodynamics, and echocardiographic measurements were obtained before and after aortic valve closure.

RESULTS: All patients underwent successful closure with the Amplatzer cribriform device (AGA Medical, Plymouth, Minnesota) via a percutaneous transcatheter femoral approach with a significant reduction of AI from severe to trivial. Cardiac hemodynamics improved, and the pulmonary capillary wedge pressure was reduced in all patients. There was no change in mitral or tricuspid regurgitation, LVAD power, or pulsatility index.

CONCLUSIONS: Percutaneous transcatheter closure of the aortic valve effectively treats LVAD-associated AI and reduces pulmonary capillary wedge pressure. This procedure should be considered to treat LVAD-associated AI in patients who are poor candidates for repeat operation. Further data are needed to assess long-term results.