Aortic annulus angulation does not attenuate procedural success of transcatheter aortic valve replacement using a novel self-expanding bioprosthesis

The objectives of the study were to evaluate the impact of aortic angulation (AA) on success of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) with a new generation self-expandable prosthesis (Medtronic Evolut R®). Specific anatomical conditions, such as for example the presence of a horizontal aorta with elevated AA, have seemed to pose a significant challenge for the correct positioning and consequent functioning of self-expandable TAVR prostheses. We assessed 146 patients treated with Evolut R. AA was measured at computed tomography and two groups were identified using as cutoff the mean AA value. Acute outcomes were collected and compared. AA mean value was 49.6 ± 9.4° (AA ≥ 50°: 76 and AA