Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
How to fix balloon stuck during TAVR in bicuspid aortic valve
By Peng Y et al.·2025·Department of Cardiology, China·View original on Europe PMC →
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Original publication title: Bailout Strategies for Balloon Entrapment During TAVR in Type 0 Bicuspid Aortic Valve.
Plain-English summary
A 78-year-old woman with severe aortic stenosis, a condition where her heart valve was narrowed and not working properly, underwent a procedure called transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). During the procedure, the balloon used to place the new valve got stuck, which can be a serious issue, especially in patients with a lot of calcium buildup on their valves. The medical team was able to safely release the balloon by carefully adjusting the valve frame, and the woman recovered well. Nearly three years later, she has not experienced any further heart problems or needed to go back to the hospital. This case shows that while balloon entrapment during TAVR is rare, it can be effectively managed with the right techniques.
Abstract
<h4>Background</h4>Balloon entrapment during transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a rare but serious complication, especially in patients with severe valve calcification.<h4>Case summary</h4>A 78-year-old woman with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis (peak velocity 7.23 m/s, preserved left ventricular ejection fraction 70%) underwent TAVR. After valve deployment, the balloon became entrapped within the prosthesis. Controlled postdilation was performed to disrupt the valve frame mesh, successfully releasing the balloon. The patient recovered well; at nearly 3 years of follow-up, she remains asymptomatic without rehospitalization for heart failure or neurologic events.<h4>Discussion</h4>This case highlights the role of controlled postdilation as a safe and effective bailout strategy for balloon entrapment during TAVR. Reviewing the literature, balloon entrapment is rare but potentially life-threatening, and prompt recognition with appropriate technical solutions is critical for favorable outcomes.<h4>Take-home messages</h4>Balloon entrapment during TAVR is rare but can be effectively managed with controlled postdilation, particularly in patients with severe calcification. Ensuring correct guidewire position in the left ventricle, confirmed by multiple fluoroscopic views, helps prevent balloon entrapment by avoiding passage through the stent mesh.
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Search related cases →Original publication on Europe PMC: https://europepmc.org/article/MED/41386941