Noninvasive assessment of prosthetic heart valves

Objective assessment of prosthetic valvular function is crucial in the patient with a prosthetic heart valve. Combined two-dimensional echocardiography and Doppler examination is the imaging modality of choice in this setting because it provides detailed anatomic and hemodynamic information. These procedures allow detection of valve related complications as well as subclinical prosthetic dysfunction. Combined Doppler echocardiography should be an essential part of the follow-up of these patients.