OBJECTIVETo evaluate the safety and efficacy and summarize the initial experience of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) for treating patients with severe aortic stenosis.

METHODSFrom October 2010 to May 2011, TAVI using 18 F Corevalve system was applied in 3 patients with severe calcified aortic valve stenosis at high risk for surgery. The efficacy and complications of the procedure were analyzed and the procedure experiences were summarized.

RESULTSTAVI procedure was successful in all 3 cases. The mean operation time was (109.0 ± 22.6) minutes and X-ray exposure time was (24.0 ± 9.5) minutes. The peak pressure gradients after surgery were significantly reduced [from (84 ± 15) mm Hg (1 mm Hg = 0.133 kPa) to (6 ± 3) mm Hg]. A trivial to mild paravalvular leak was observed in all patients post procedure. Case 1 was free from perioperative complications. Case 2 experienced a transient complete left bundle branch block. Case 3 developed 3 degree atrioventricular block and implanted with a permanent cardiac pacemaker, cardiac tamponade which was relieved through conservative treatment, including pericardial puncture and drainage and acute kidney injury.

CONCLUSIONSOur initial experience showed that TAVI using the 18 F Corevalve system is safe and effective for patients with severe calcified aortic valve stenosis at high-risk for surgery, though the procedure may cause some complications. Strict patient selection and proficient surgical techniques may reduce the incidence of complications.