Pilot Study of Cognitive and Functional Outcomes Following TAVI

Cardiovascular disease including valvular heart disease, contributes to an estimated 36% of all deaths over the age of 70. In particular, severe aortic stenosis is the most common valvular heart disease in the elderly in the Western world and is associated with reduced quality of life and increased mortality. TAVI has been shown to improve survival, with an all-cause mortality at 1 year similar to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) with favourable outcomes long-term including improved functional capacity and quality of life. Recent evidence from randomized controlled trials suggests an increased risk of neurological events (e.g. cognitive decline) up to 1 year after TAVI in comparison to both SAVR and medical treatment. Studies have shown no change in short-term memory, working memory, verbal learning, delayed recognition and verbal fluency 3 months after TAVI. In addition, patients with severe aortic stenosis have an increased risk of mortality and future health complications. This study will be an observational, prospective cohort pilot study to examine changes in cognitive performance and functional outcomes after TAVI. We propose to recruit 34 patients for this study. Cognitive performance will be measured using a standardized cognitive battery prior to TAVI and 6 months post-TAVI. Functional capacity, changes in neuropsychiatric symptoms and quality of life will also be assessed prior to TAVI and 6 months post-TAVI. We hypothesize there will a change in cognitive performance, functional capacity, mood outcomes and quality of life over 6 months after TAVI.

Inclusion criteria

• diagnosis of severe symptomatic aortic stenosis
• undergoing TAVI
• speak and understand English

Exclusion criteria

• emergency TAVI
• any medical conditions that will affect their ability to complete the protocol