Embolic protection devices for stroke prevention during cardiac interventions

Abstract Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has emerged as a preferred method of treatment for high-risk patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis (AS) and is a preferred alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement for patients at intermediate risk. Despite advances in transcatheter valve devices, stroke remains as one of the most clinical devastating complications following TAVI. Stroke rates following other transcatheter procedures also demonstrate a need for a clinically effective solution for the prevention of stroke. In this section we review the incidence of neurologic injury following various procedures, proposed definitions for neurologic events, and current evidence for neuroprotection and adjunctive pharmacotherapy.