Subclinical leaflet thrombosis after transcatheter aortic valve implantation remains a subject of debate regarding its impact on valve durability and stroke risk, with optimal treatment unconfirmed.
What is the clinical relevance, optimal diagnostic imaging strategy, and best antithrombotic treatment for subclinical leaflet thrombosis after transcatheter aortic valve implantation?
This review highlights the increasing relevance of subclinical leaflet thrombosis after TAVI, its diagnosis via CT, and the ongoing uncertainty regarding its clinical impact and optimal antithrombotic management.
In recent years, the phenomenon of subclinical leaflet thrombosis (SLT) in patients who have undergone transcatheter aortic valve implantation has become increasingly relevant. Hypo-attenuating leaflet thickening and hypo-attenuation affecting motion diagnosed by CT are the hallmarks of SLT, and their incidence varies depending on the intensity of screening. Whether these phenomena are a surrogate for leaflet thrombosis reducing valve durability and increasing the risk of stroke is still a matter of debate. Uncertainty remains over the optimal antithrombotic therapy after TAVI and the best treatment strategy is still not confirmed. Ongoing and future trials will provide more evidence about the best strategy for the prevention and treatment of SLT.
Martı́n et al. (Fri,) conducted a review in Subclinical leaflet thrombosis after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Subclinical leaflet thrombosis after transcatheter aortic valve implantation remains a subject of debate regarding its impact on valve durability and stroke risk, with optimal treatment unconfirmed.