Risk Factors for Delayed Atrioventricular Block after Aortic Valve Surgery: A Retrospective Study

Objective: This study aimed to examine the potential factors that contribute to the occurrence of delayed high-grade atrioventricular block (DHAVB) following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 115 patients who underwent TAVR at Jiaozhou Central Hospital of Qingdao Hospital between January 2018, and June 2023. A follow-up period of 30 days post-operation was observed for all patients. The patients were categorized into two groups on the basis of the occurrence of DHAVB: DHAVB group (n = 35) and control group (n = 80). The general clinical data preoperative and postoperative heart disease characteristics of the groups were compared. The risk factors associated with DHAVB after TAVR were analyzed. Results: The mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) level of the DHAVB group significantly increased compared with that of the control group, whereas the heart rate (HR) level significantly reduced (p < 0.05). The average preoperative left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was significantly lower in the DHAVB group than in the control group (p < 0.05). The control group exhibited a significantly higher prevalence of preoperative QRS wave broadening, severe calcification of the aortic valve, and right bundle branch block than the control group (p < 0.05). Spearman's correlation and logistic regression analyses identified increased SBP, decreased HR, diminished LVEF, the presence of preoperative and postoperative right bundle branch block, and thickened interventricular septum were as risk factors for DHAVB in patients undergoing TAVR (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Close surveillance of blood pressure, heart rate, and cardiac function is recommended for individuals undergoing TAVR. Pre-operative and post-operative electrocardiography and echocardiography are valuable tools in identifying potential risk factors for DHAVB, offering a solid foundation for effective patient prognostic management.