New Heart Procedure Shows Promise, but More Evidence Is Needed, Says ECRI Institute

A new heart valve procedure intended to treat patients with severe aortic stenosis and individuals at high risk for surgical complications or death is gaining traction in the United States. Based on the results of its review of clinical studies comparing the procedure transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) to standard medical therapy or to aortic valve replacement, ECRI Institute determined that the quantity, quality, and consistency of the available evidence concerning TAVI is moderate. “TAVI seems to provide benefit over the nonsurgical option for inoperable patients. However, using TAVI for high-risk or immediate-risk patients still needs to be monitored, as there is a lack of consistent evidence that suggests a clear benefit over standard open aortic valve replacement,” says Vivian Coates, ECRI Institute’s vice president of information services and health technology assessment.