Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 11, 2026

A Rodent Model of The Ross Operation: Syngeneic Pulmonary Artery Graft Implantation in A Systemic Position
11:20

A Rodent Model of The Ross Operation: Syngeneic Pulmonary Artery Graft Implantation in A Systemic Position

Published on: April 1, 2022

Does mild valvular aortic stenosis progress during childhood?

Julio Ardura1, Carmen Gonzalez, Jesus Andres

  • 1Pediatric Cardiology, University Hospital, Facultad de Medicina, Valladolid, Spain. ardura@ped.uva.es

The Journal of Heart Valve Disease
|February 17, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Congenital valvular aortic stenosis (AS) with gradients under 40 mmHg in children is stable. These patients require no treatment and can be monitored every two years.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Echocardiography
  • Valvular Heart Disease

Background:

  • The progression of congenital valvular aortic stenosis (AS) and its impact on treatment decisions in pediatric patients is debated.
  • A gradient threshold of < 40 mmHg is hypothesized to indicate stability in congenital valvular AS during follow-up.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the stability of congenital valvular AS in pediatric patients with initial gradients below 40 mmHg.
  • To determine appropriate follow-up intervals for mild, untreated congenital valvular AS.

Main Methods:

  • Longitudinal follow-up of 25 pediatric patients with isolated, untreated valvular AS for eight years.
  • Utilized clinical assessments, electrocardiography, X-radiography, and comprehensive echocardiography (M-mode, 2D, Doppler) to measure gradient, anatomy, and function.

Main Results:

  • No significant changes in symptoms or physical examination findings were observed.
  • Cardiac enlargement decreased significantly (p < 0.001), while functional status and valvular gradients remained stable (mean difference 2.38 mmHg; p = 0.74).
  • A slight, non-significant increasing trend was noted between gradient and age (r = 0.20).

Conclusions:

  • The study confirms the stable nature of mild congenital valvular AS, particularly in patients with initial gradients < 40 mmHg.
  • These patients demonstrated stability and did not require intervention.
  • Follow-up and clinical management for such patients can be safely extended to intervals of two years or longer.
Abstract

More Related Videos

A Rabbit Aortic Valve Stenosis Model Induced by Direct Balloon Injury07:10

A Rabbit Aortic Valve Stenosis Model Induced by Direct Balloon Injury

Published on: March 31, 2023

Related Concept Videos

Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction01:22

Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction

Mitral Valve Stenosis (MVS) is a heart condition where the mitral valve narrows, impeding blood circulation from the left atrium to the left ventricle. The etiology and pathophysiology of this condition are multifaceted, leading to a cascade of cardiovascular complications.Causes of Mitral Valve StenosisRheumatic Heart Disease: It is the main cause of mitral valve stenosis, particularly in developing nations. This condition arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory illness resulting from...
Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management01:26

Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management

Mitral stenosis, a condition marked by the narrowing of the mitral valve, necessitates an integrated approach for effective management. This approach includes preventative measures, medical therapy, and surgical interventions to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.PreventionPrevention of mitral stenosis primarily focuses on reducing the incidence of bacterial infections, particularly streptococcal infections, which can lead to rheumatic fever and subsequent valvular damage. Timely...
Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests01:23

Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests

Mitral stenosis is a heart condition in which the mitral valve, which allows blood to flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle, becomes narrowed or stenotic. This narrowing hinders blood flow and leads to clinical symptoms requiring specific medical evaluations and management strategies. The following overview outlines the clinical symptoms, assessments, diagnostic findings, prevention methods, and treatments for mitral stenosis.Clinical ManifestationsDyspnea (shortness of breath): This...
Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests01:22

Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests

Aortic valve regurgitation (AR) occurs when the aortic valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward from the aorta into the left ventricle. This backflow can result in two distinct clinical presentations: acute and chronic AR, each characterized by its own set of symptoms and physical findings.Acute Aortic RegurgitationAcute AR presents with a sudden onset of severe symptoms. Patients typically experience profound dyspnea (shortness of breath), chest pain, and signs of left...
Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction01:15

Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction

IntroductionAortic regurgitation is characterized by the backward flow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole and arises from the improper closure of the aortic valve. This condition results in left ventricular volume overload and can stem from both acute and chronic etiologies, each contributing uniquely to the disease's progression and symptomatology.Acute and Chronic CausesAcute aortic regurgitation often results from events that suddenly impair the integrity of the...
Mitral Stenosis IV: Nursing Management01:27

Mitral Stenosis IV: Nursing Management

A comprehensive nursing assessment is essential for patients with valvular heart disease, which involves any dysfunction of the heart valves that could impact blood flow and overall heart function.Subjective Data Collection:Chief Complaint and Present Illness: Start with the patient's primary concerns, focusing on the onset, duration, and progression of cardiac symptoms such as dyspnea, fatigue, chest pain, and palpitations.Past Medical History: Collect detailed information on any previous...