BMC Geriatrics · Oct 21, 2026
Prevalence of frailty syndrome among patients with severe aortic stenosis qualified for TAVI
By Świątoniowska-Lonc N, Węgrzynowska-Teodorczyk K, Perone F et al.
Background: Frailty syndrome is a common comorbidity in elderly patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS), significantly influencing outcomes of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Early identification of frailty and its determinants is essential for optimizing care and improving quality of life. Methods: This cross-sectional, observational study included 113 Polish patients qualified for TAVI between January and September 2024. Frailty was assessed using the Tilburg Frailty Indicator (TFI). Quality of life, mental health, and social support were evaluated with TASQ, HADS, and MSPSS questionnaires. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of frailty. Results: Frailty syndrome was present in 82.3% of patients. Higher frailty levels were associated with worse NYHA class, unhealthy lifestyle, and increased emotional burden. Depression and anxiety were significantly correlated with frailty, especially its psychological domain. Logistic regression revealed that NYHA class, emotional impact (TASQ), and unhealthy lifestyle were independent predictors of frailty. Social support negatively correlated with social frailty scores, suggesting a protective effect. Conclusions: Frailty is highly prevalent among patients with severe AS undergoing TAVI. Comprehensive preprocedural assessment should include physical, emotional, and social factors. Targeted interventions - particularly prehabilitation and psychosocial support - may help address modifiable components of frailty in this population. Clinical trial number: Not applicable.