Central retinal artery occlusion following transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) for aortic stenosis: a case report

Background : Transcatheter aortic valve implantation is the standard treatment for high risk elderly patients suffering from symptomatic severe aortic stenosis. While this procedure is significantly less invasive compared to traditional methods, there are concerns regarding the potential risk of cerebrovascular accidents and ocular complications. We report a case of monocular central retinal artery occlusion that occurred following transcatheter aortic valve implantation due to aortic stenosis. The occurrence of central retinal artery occlusion post-transcatheter aortic valve implantation has not previously been reported. Case presentation: A 78-year-old male presented with a sudden, painless loss of vision in the left eye immediately after undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Fundus examination revealed moderate optic disc edema, mild venous tortuosity and a diffusely pale retina in the macular area with a cherry spot in the foveal area. Optical coherence tomography indicated signs of retinal ischemia. The patient was referred to the emergency department for further assessment. Conclusions: Although there is evidence of embolization occurring after TAVI, this is the first case of central retinal artery occlusion that has been reported. Patients who have undergone this procedure and report visual impairment should be subjected to a thorough ophthalmological examination.