Aortic valve stenosis

Charles Z Zigelman1, Patti M Edelstein

  • 1Post Anesthesia Care Unit, Department of Anesthesia, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem 91031, Israel. ziggy@szmc.org.il

Anesthesiology Clinics
|October 15, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Calcific aortic stenosis (AS) is a degenerative heart condition in older adults. Current treatments focus on aortic valve replacement (AVR) for symptomatic patients, as medical therapies are ineffective for altering disease progression.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Geriatrics
  • Anesthesiology

Background:

  • Calcific aortic stenosis (AS) is a degenerative cardiovascular disease common in the elderly.
  • It shares pathological and etiological similarities with atherosclerosis, involving biomechanical, systemic, and inflammatory processes.

Observation:

  • No medical therapy has proven effective in halting the progression of calcific AS.
  • Factors indicating accelerated progression include moderate valve calcification, chronic dialysis, and advanced age (≥80 years).

Findings:

  • Aortic valve replacement (AVR) is the primary treatment for symptomatic AS.
  • Despite associated risks, AVR offers a good long-term prognosis for successful candidates.
  • Newer AVR techniques and technologies are under development to mitigate risks.

Implications:

  • Anesthesiologists require a comprehensive understanding of AS for effective perioperative management of affected patients.
  • Recognizing risk factors for rapid disease progression is crucial for timely intervention.
  • Ongoing advancements in AVR aim to improve patient outcomes and reduce procedural complications.

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...
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...
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...
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 III: Medical Management01:25

Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management

Aortic regurgitation (AR) is when the aortic valve does not close or seal properly, leading to backward blood circulation from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole. Common causes of AR include rheumatic heart disease, congenital valve defects, and aortic root dilation. Managing AR requires a multifaceted approach to alleviate symptoms, preserve left ventricular function, and address the underlying cause of the regurgitation. Patients with symptomatic AR or significant left...
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...