Pacing Burden In Those Undergoing Permanent Pacemaker Implantation After Tavr With Latest Generation Valves

Background: Risk factors leading to heart block (HB) and need for permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation post-TAVR using latest generation heart valves have been described. Yet, little is known regarding pacing burden following PPM implantation among such patients. Objective: We sought to determine follow-up RV pacing burden among those undergoing PPM for HB following TAVR. Methods: From July 2016 to July 2017, we reviewed procedural and 3-month follow-up data (including PPM interrogation data) from all patients undergoing implantation of Edwards Sapien 3® and Medtronic Evolut-R® valves at our institution and requiring implantation of a PPM due to HB secondary to the TAVR procedure. Results: Of 132 included patients who underwent TAVR with new generation valves, 25 (19%) required post-TAVR PPM implantation. Of 25 patients, 18 had available follow-up pacemaker data [Table]. Pacing burden post-PPM implantation of 29mm valves was significantly greater compared to non-29mm valves (40.2% vs. 5.4%, p = 0.02). Those with baseline conduction system disease (RBBB or LBBB) had greater pacing burdens, in particular when 29mm Evolut-R® self-expanding valves were deployed (n=3, RV pacing burden 63.3%). Extension of programmed AV delays produced significant reduction in RV pacing burden. Conclusion: In those undergoing TAVR with latest generation valves complicated by HB requiring PPM use, implantation of larger-sized valves (29 mm Evolut-R® in the present series), as well as baseline RBBB or LBBB results in increased follow-up RV pacing burden. This may be mitigated by adjustment of pacing parameters. Further work investigating long-term pacing burden and its consequences is needed to provide additional insight. Table: Demographics, baseline ECG characteristics, procedural characteristics, pacing mode, pacing parameters and follow-up RV pacing burden.