In Pursuit of a Unicorn: Does the Ideal Parameter for Grading of Aortic Stenosis During Intraoperative Transesophageal Echocardiography Exist?

THE METHODS TO evaluate patients for aortic stenosis (AS) have evolved greatly over time. Once a diagnosis made primarily by stethoscope and later by cardiac catheterization, echocardiography has become the default modality for diagnosing and grading AS. The validity of echocardiographic assessment has been established for a number of parameters, and society guidelines for grading of disease are updated continually based on advances in our growing knowledge of AS hemodynamics. According to the most recent American Society of Echocardiography/European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging recommendations, AS peak jet velocity (Vp), mean transvalvular pressure gradient (PGm), aortic valve area (AVA) measured using the continuity equation, indexed AVA, and the velocity ratio are the primary recommended hemodynamic parameters for evaluation of AS severity.
Source: Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia - Category: Anesthesiology Authors: Tags: Editorial Source Type: research