Developments in Transcatheter Heart Valves for Patients with Severe Aortic Stenosis

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has become a viable treatment option for elderly patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis who are highly likely to require conventional surgery. Current developments in TAVI essentially focus on three issues: miniaturisation of catheter devices and sheaths for facilitated transfemoral vascular access; development of retrievable and repositionable valve systems; and the prevention of peri-procedural embolic stroke. This article will provide a review of current developments in the field of TAVI.