Frailty assessment tools demonstrated an impact on clinical outcomes in TAVR/SAVR patients across 8 reviewed studies, though the instruments lacked robust evaluation and standardized definitions.
How do different frailty assessment tools impact clinical outcomes in patients referred for TAVR/SAVR?
Standardized and validated frailty assessment protocols are needed for patient selection in TAVR centers, as current tools lack robust evaluation and comparability.
BACKGROUND: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a less invasive treatment option for patients that are deemed too high a risk for surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). The aim of this review is to evaluate the frailty tools currently being used in patients referred for TAVR. METHODS: Using a literature search involving database search engines from CINAHL, PubMed, SAGE publications and European Society of Cardiology conducted from 2010 to the present, a critical evaluation of studies dealing with frailty assessment in patients referred for TAVR/SAVR is discussed. RESULTS: Eight studies met the criteria using frailty assessment in TAVR/SAVR patients. In all reviewed studies the impact of frailty on clinical outcome has been proved. Different instruments for measurements of frailty were used that have not been robustly evaluated. Frailty was defined differently and results may not be comparable. All reviewed studies used different cutoffs and scales and some a composite scoring system, although validity was limited. CONCLUSION: For frailty assessment implementation of validated standardized test protocols based on well-established assessment tools, covering all domains of frailty among TAVR centers is crucial for patient selection. Secondly, validated cutoffs and scoring systems are essential.
Hinterbuchner et al. (Tue,) conducted a review in Patients referred for TAVR/SAVR. Frailty assessment tools was evaluated on Impact of frailty on clinical outcome. Frailty assessment tools demonstrated an impact on clinical outcomes in TAVR/SAVR patients across 8 reviewed studies, though the instruments lacked robust evaluation and standardized definitions.