The Particulars: The direct flow medical (DFM) transcatheter aortic valve can be retrieved and repositioned before permanent implantation to enhance control during implantation. Previous research indicates that the DFM valve has high efficacy and is safe in patients with severe aortic stenosis. However, the valve has not been studied in a real-world setting.
Data Breakdown: More than 105 patients with severe aortic stenosis underwent DFM transcatheter aortic valve implantation in a prospective, international study. The 30-day all-cause mortality rate was only 1.9%. The device had a success rate of 98.1%. Major vascular complications requiring vascular surgeon intervention occurred in only three cases.
Take Home Pearl: A retrievable and repositionable transcatheter aortic valve appears to be safe and effective in a real-world setting.
