Aortic stenosis

Abstract

Aortic stenosis is a common finding at echocardiography. This review describes the assessment of the aortic valve, the left ventricle, and the rest of the heart. It discusses grading the stenosis including cases in which there are discrepancies between the different echocardiographic measurements. It discusses the indications for and interpretation of stress echocardiography and the role of pressure recovery and wave reflectance. It describes, in outline, the medical management of aortic stenosis and indications for surgery. The minimum dataset is: peak instantaneous velocity, mean gradient, effective orifice area, LV dimensions and systolic function, aortic diameter, mitral valve appearance and function, RV size and function and PA pressure.