Impact of transcatheter aortic valve replacement on blood flow and fluid dynamics in the aorta and brachiocephalic artery

Motivation: Changes in blood flow and fluid dynamics of the ascending aorta (AsAo) and brachiocephalic artery (BCA) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for severe aortic stenosis (AS) are not clear. Goal(s): To investigate the changes in blood flow and fluid dynamics in the AsAo and BCA before and after TAVR. Approach: Blood flow and fluid dynamics were evaluated using four-dimensional flow magnetic resonance imaging (4D flow MRI) before and after TAVR. Results: 4D flow MRI revealed a significant increase in blood flow at the BCA, especially in low flow AS, and improvement in fluid dynamics parameters at the AsAo. Impact: 4D flow MRI revealed changes in blood flow and fluid dynamics of the AsAo and BCA before and after TAVR. 4D flow MRI may be a potential tool to comprehensively evaluate perioperative blood flow dynamics for severe AS.