Subjects are randomized into this arm to receive a transaortic transcatheter aortic valve implantation with the use of the embolic protection device "EmbolX"

Subjects are randomized into this arm to receive a transaortic transcatheter aortic valve implantation without the use of the embolic protection device "EmbolX"

The Embol-X system is positioned within the aorta to capture emboli, such as blood clots or tissue fragments, to prevent them from traveling through a patient's bloodstream during TAVI. The EMBOL-X system features a small, expandable, polyester-mesh filtration system that is placed inside the aorta above the aortic clamp during open-heart surgery or transaortic TAVI procedures, where it captures particles in the bloodstream that otherwise might have remained in the patient's circulatory system. A recent presentation characterized the removal of aortic cross-clamps as creating in some patients "embolic showers" which have the potential to cause neurocognitive complications, stroke and other organ damage. In documented procedures, 97% of EMBOL-X system filters showed detectable captured embolic matter, visible proof that the system is removing potentially dangerous emboli from the bloodstream.

MRI of the brain is obtained at the same time as clinical exams. Scans are performed on a 1.5-T MR unit and a circular polarized head coil. The imaging protocol includes a transversal DW, single shot echo-planar sequence of the whole brain. Diffusion images are processed to generate isotopic apparent diffusion coefficient maps using dedicated software allowing for proper classification of the lesions. Transversal fluid-attenuated inversion recovery and transversal T2-weighted turbo spin-echo sequences are also performed. Slice thickness is 5mm for all sequences. Scans are read by an experienced neuroradiologist blinded to the clinical data. The presence, number, volume and location of all new focal diffusion abnormalities were recorded.

Stroke and transient ischaemic attack is defined according to the Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC) recommendation. In case of stroke, the modified Rankin scale (mRS) is assessed to categorize the patient's level of functional independence during daily activities.

Examinations were performed at baseline, pre-discharge and 3 months thereafter. Neurological status is assessed by a detailed clinical examination protocol. Cognitive function is evaluated using three different standardized neuropsychological tests and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE).