Effect of transcatheter aortic valve replacement on left atrial function

Echocardiography. 2018 Nov;35(11):1713-1720. doi: 10.1111/echo.14109. Epub 2018 Aug 5.

Abstract

Objectives: To investigate the effect of transcatheter aortic valve replacement on left atrial volumetric function and left atrial volume for the prediction of adverse outcomes.

Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of 121 patients in sinus rhythm who underwent TAVR for severe AS. Maximum LA volume index (LAVI max), minimum LA volume index (LAVI min), and "pre-A" volume index (LAVIpre-A, the volume before atrial contraction) were measured by biplane Simpson's method at baseline, 1 month, and 1 year. The reservoir function, conduit function, booster pump function were calculated. All patients were followed for new-onset of atrial fibrillation, hospitalization and all-cause mortality.

Results: The reservoir function, conduit function and booster function before TAVR were 46%, 21%, 32%, respectively. LA volumetric function assessment demonstrated that reservoir function, conduit function increased over the time (all P < 0.01). There was no difference in booster function after TAVR (P = 0.18). Baseline markedly enlarged LA was significantly increased for AF (HR: 4.72; 95% CI, 1.11-20.13, P = 0.04). In addition, There was a progressive decrease in LAVI max (P = 0.02) and RVSP (P = 0.03) over the time in non-AF group but not in AF group (P = 0.62 and P = 0.65, respectively). Although, the proportion of high left ventricular filling pressure decreased in both groups but a marked decrease was noted in non AF group in compared with AF group.

Conclusion: Reservoir function, conduit function increased over time. Lack of negative LA remodeling post TAVR was associated with higher incidence of AF.

Keywords: LA booster function; LA conduit function; LA reservoir function; LV filling pressure; left atrial volume.

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Atrial Function, Left / physiology*
  • Echocardiography / methods*
  • Female
  • Heart Atria / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Postoperative Period
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement*
  • Treatment Outcome