Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) demonstrates long-term durability similar to that of traditional open-heart surgery in low-risk patients, according to seven-year follow-up data from the PARTNER 3 trial published in JAMA Cardiology.
Researchers recruited 1,000 low-risk patients and randomly assigned them to receive either TAVR using the SAPIEN 3 valve or traditional surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). Participants underwent regular echocardiograms over seven years to assess valve function and durability.
The results showed comparable outcomes between the two approaches. Significant valve deterioration occurred in 7.3% of TAVR patients and 7.6% of surgical patients. Valve failure rates were also similar, affecting 6.9% of TAVR patients and 7.5% of those who underwent surgery. Approximately 6% of TAVR patients and 5.5% of surgical patients required a second valve procedure. Overall, about 75% of patients in both groups were alive with a fully functioning replacement valve at study completion.
However, one notable difference emerged: blood clots (thrombosis) occurred more frequently after TAVR, affecting 5.2% of patients compared with 0.9% of those who underwent traditional surgery.
The findings are particularly relevant as TAVR is increasingly considered for younger, lower-risk patients. Aortic stenosis affects millions worldwide, and whilst surgical bioprosthetic valves are designed to last 10 years or more, some can fail within five to seven years. Limited data had previously been available comparing TAVR valve performance beyond five years in low-risk populations.
The researchers concluded that both TAVR and surgery represent excellent long-term options for low-risk patients, though those choosing TAVR should be monitored for early valve thrombosis so it can be identified and managed appropriately.
Source: Medical Xpress / JAMA Cardiology (2026)
