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Hypercapnia during transcatheter aortic valve replacement under monitored anesthesia care

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Sep 12, 2025 version files 437.33 KB

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Abstract

Acute intraoperative hypercapnia and respiratory acidosis, which can occur during monitored anesthesia care (MAC), pose significant cardiopulmonary risks for patients with aortic stenosis presenting for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The goal of the present study is to assess the incidence, risk factors, and impact of intraoperative hypercapnia during MAC for patients undergoing transfemoral TAVR. Data were collected retrospectively from the electronic medical record of 201 consecutive patients with available intraoperative arterial blood gas (ABG) data who underwent percutaneous transfemoral TAVR with MAC using propofol and dexmedetomidine.  ABGs (pH, PaCO2, PaO2) were performed at the start of each case (baseline), immediately prior to valve deployment (ValveDepl), and upon arrival to the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU).  Data was analyzed using Fisher’s Exact Test, unpaired Student’s t test, Wilcoxon rank sum, or univariate linear regression as appropriate based on PaCO2 and pH during valve deployment (PaCO2-ValveDepl, pH-ValveDepl) and change in PaCO2and pH from baseline to valve deployment (PaCO2-%increase, pH-%decrease) to determine their association with preoperative demographic data, intraoperative anesthetic and vasoactive medications, and postoperative outcomes. PaCO2 increased by a mean of 28.4% and was higher than baseline in 91% of patients.  Younger age, male sex, increased weight, and increased propofol dose contributed to higher PaCO2-ValveDepl and greater PaCO2-%increase. Patients with PaCO2-ValveDepl > 60 mmHg, pH ≤ 7.2, and greater pH-%decrease were more likely to receive vasoactive medications, but perioperative PaCO2 and pH were not associated with adverse postoperative outcomes. Transient significant hypercapnia commonly occurs during transfemoral TAVR with deep sedation using propofol and dexmedetomidine.  Although the incidence of postoperative outcomes does not appear to be affected by hypercapnia, the need for vasopressors and inotropes is increased.  If deep sedation is required for TAVR, hypercapnia and the need for hemodynamic and ventilatory support should be anticipated.