Improving decision-making for patients with aortic valve stenosis

Structured Shared Decision Making for Patients Undergoing Elective Surgical or Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TOGETHER): A Randomized-controlled Trial

NA · Insel Gruppe AG, University Hospital Bern · NCT05711186

This study tests if a new way of helping patients with severe aortic stenosis make treatment choices can improve their satisfaction and outcomes compared to standard care.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment140 (estimated)
Ages70 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorInsel Gruppe AG, University Hospital Bern (other)
Locations1 site (Bern)
Trial IDNCT05711186 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of a structured shared decision-making approach for patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis who are considering either surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) or transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The trial aims to enhance patient-centered outcomes by integrating patient values and preferences into the treatment decision process. It is a randomized, open-label, single-center trial involving 140 patients referred for treatment. The study compares the structured decision-making approach against usual care to determine its impact on patient satisfaction and treatment outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients aged 70 years or older with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis who are eligible for both SAVR and TAVR.

Not a fit: Patients with a life expectancy of less than one year or those unable to provide informed consent may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to better-informed treatment choices and improved patient satisfaction for those with aortic valve stenosis.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown that shared decision-making can improve patient outcomes, suggesting this approach may be beneficial.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age ≥ 70 years
2. Symptomatic severe aortic stenosis defined by an aortic valve area ≤1.0 cm2 or an aortic valve area indexed to body surface area \<0.6cm2/m2
3. Both SAVR and transfemoral TAVR as reasonable treatment options based on heart team decision

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Life expectancy \<1 year irrespective of valvular heart disease
2. Inability to provide informed consent
3. Participation in another clinical trial with an active intervention

Where this trial is running

Bern

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Aortic Valve Stenosis, Symptomatic Aortic Stenosis, SAVR, Shared Decision-Making, TAVR, TAVI, Decision Support Techniques

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.