Presystolic A wave may predict increased arterial stiffness in asymptomatic individuals

Stiffness of large arteries has been related to cardiovascular mortality. The cardioankle vascular index (CAVI) is a novel parameter of arterial stiffness. The main aim of the present study was to investigate the association between presystolic wave (PSW) on left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) and CAVI.

Patients admitted to the cardiology outpatient clinic were consecutively enrolled. Arterial stiffness was assessed by the CAVI. It was measured using a VaSera VS-1000 CAVI instrument. Pulse Doppler flow evaluation in LVOT was performed just proximal to the aortic valve in an apical five-chamber view. The presence of a PSW preceding the LVOT flow was assessed in all patients.

A total of 200 patients were enrolled consecutively. Patients with PSW had higher CAVI values compared with those without PSW (8.6±1.6 vs. 7.3±1.5). There was a significant correlation between PSW velocity and CAVI (r=0.34, P<0.001). Analysis using the receiver operating characteristics curve showed that PSW velocity of 61 cm/s constitutes the cutoff value for abnormal CAVI (CAVI≥9) with 75% sensitivity and 74% specificity (area under the curve: 0.883, 95% confidence interval: 0.694-0.972).

Assessment of presystolic A wave on echocardiography examination may provide important information on the vascular function, which has a prognostic impact.