Abstract 3043: Population Characteristics, Treatment Assignment and Survival of Elderly Patients with Aortic Stenosis Referred for Percutaneous Valve Replacement

An increasing number of elderly are being referred for percutaneous aortic valve replacement (PAVR). Although case studies are available on treatment and outcome and phase II studies are ongoing, little is known about the demographics of the total population referred in addition to treatment assignment and survival of the entire population. This was subject of the present prospective observational cohort study. Since November 2005, 167 patients were referred for PAVR of whom 65 pts received valve replacement (47 PAVR, 3 balloon valvuloplasty [PABV], 15 surgical [AVR]), 18 refused treatment and 27 were no candidate for PAVR or AVR and received medical therapy. Patients who are still under evaluation (60) were excluded from the analysis. Predefined demographic, clinical, technical, laboratory and procedural variables were prospectively entered into a dedicated database. Follow-up of vital status was obtained by contacting the civil registries. The follow-up was complete for all patients. Treatment assignment, baseline characteristics, risk and mortality at FU are summarized in the table . Most patients referred for PAVR are female. Although the majority received PAVR, still 14% received AVR and 25% were rejected for valve replacement. AVR treated patients have the lowest risk score, yet a higher mortality than the PAVR group. Patients who refused treatment had the highest mortality. It is conceivable that in the latter group, earlier referral and treatment may reduce mortality. Demographics.