Elimination of Microemboli During Aortic Valve Replacement

ELMAR - Elimination of Microemboli During Aortic Valve Replacement. A Randomized Controlled Trial

In a randomized controlled trial patients undergoing aortic valve replacement are recruited into 3 groups. Patients receive either an intra-aortic filter (Embol-X), designed to reduce solid microemboli during mechanical surgical intervention, a dynamic bubble-trap (DBT), designed to reduce gaseous microemboli from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), or no additional device (control-group). Cognitive functioning is assessed 3 weeks to 1 day before and 3 months (+/- 1 week) after valve replacement. Furthermore, cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is carried 2-6 days after surgery. Primary endpoint is the cognitive outcome of the filter groups compared to the controls. Secondary endpoint is the number of acute ischemic lesions after CABG.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age > 18
• Elective aortic valve replacement
• Informed consent
• German language

Exclusion Criteria:

• Neurological and psychiatric diseases that would conflict with neuropsychological testing (e.g. stroke, TBI, schizophrenia, etc.); further major surgeries on CPB planned for within 3 months after valve replacement
• Contraindication against MRI assessment