Abstract
Since the first in-human implantation, trans-catheter aortic valve
replacement (TAVR) has shown an exciting development in both technical
and technological terms, becoming the standard of care for many
patients, even not only inoperable ones. Although trans-femoral (TF)
access has the scepter of first-line route for TAVR, in some cases, this
access is not feasible, so several alternative routes were introduces
over time. The network meta-analysis by Hameed et al has the great merit
to provide a comprehensive picture. Hence, through either direct and
indirect comparison, the authors confirmed as TF is the gold standard as
access, followed by trans-carotid and trans-subclavian. Conversely,
trans-thoracic (trans apical and trans-aortic) routes are the least safe
and should be reserved only to sporadic cases.