Regional differences in the utilization and outcomes of cerebral embolic protection during transcatheter aortic valve replacement: an analysis of the National Inpatient Sample from 2017 through 2019

AIM: To evaluate the utilization and outcomes of cerebral embolic protection (CEP) during transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) by USA region, using discharge data from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS), Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP), Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. PATIENTS & METHODS: All TAVR discharge encounters from June 2017–2019 were included in the analysis. Discharge encounters with bicuspid anatomy were excluded. Regional CEP utilization rates were reported. For TAVR cases performed with the Sentinel CEP device (Boston Scientific, MA, USA), multivariable logistic regression was performed to model regional differences in TAVR outcomes including: stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), stroke/TIA combined, and in-hospital all-cause mortality. Generalized linear regression models were used to assess regional differences in length of stay (LOS) and hospital charges. RESULTS: The Northeast had the greatest overall CEP utilization rate (11.3%), followed by the Midwest (11.1%), West (8.7%), then South (3.1%). Compared with the Northeast, the South was associated with a lower risk of stroke (OR: 0.267, 95% CI: 0.106–0.673; p = 0.005), and the West a higher risk of stroke (OR: 1.583, 95% CI: 1.044–2.401; p = 0.031). Compared with the Northeast, the West was associated with a higher risk of stroke/TIA combined (OR: 1.618, 95% CI: 1.107–2.364; p = 0.013). Compared with the Northeast, the Midwest (OR: 4.501, 95% CI: 2.229–9.089; p < 0.001) and West (OR: 5.316, 95% CI: 2.611–10.824; p < 0.001) were associated with a higher risk of in-hospital all-cause mortality. Adjusted charges and LOS were highest in the West. CONCLUSION: Within the USA, there are regional differences in the utilization and outcomes of CEP use during TAVR. To prevent regional disparities and ensure consistent quality of care in the USA, further research is needed to determine what variable(s) may be responsible for regional differences in TAVR outcomes, with or without CEP.