Transcatheter valve-in-valve therapy: What does the pediatric cardiologist need to know?

Valve pathology is a significant component of pediatric cardiovascular disease. Outside the pediatric age group, patients are selecting bioprosthetic valve replacements to avoid the obligate anticoagulation associated with mechanical valves either because of the inability to take anticoagulation, pregnancy considerations, or preference. Bioprosthetic valves, however, inevitably degenerate. The standard treatment is a repeat operation that entails additional risk. Transcatheter valve therapy has rapidly emerged as an appealing alternative. In this manuscript, we discuss the progress in transcatheter valve-in-valve (VinV) procedures. This is essential knowledge for the practicing pediatric cardiologist as it may promote the application of bioprosthetic valves as a treatment option and management strategy.