2.3. TAVR procedure

All patients underwent multidetector computed tomography (CT-scan) to characterize aortic valve and aortic root anatomy. The total amount of calcifications was assessed semi-quantitatively and graded from none to severe as described elsewhere [20]. Procedures were performed under general anesthesia or conscious sedation according to local practice. The femoral access site was routinely pre-closed using Proglide or Prostar closure devices (Abbott Vascular, USA). The sequence of valve deployment is shown in Fig. 1B. Paravalvular leakage was assessed by aortography and echocardiography [21], [22], [23]^.