Aortic Stenosis

Aortic stenosis is common, occurring in 2% of the population over 65 years of age, rising to 7% in men over 85 years. A transvalvular gradient of >50 mmHg is classed as severe and when symptoms are present, the management is straightforward “ valve replacement surgery is recommended. The median survival without surgery in this group is 2-4 years depending on the symptoms. For asymptomatic patients however, the management is less clear. Early valve replacement exposes patients to the risks of surgery and the ongoing risks of complications from prosthetic aortic valves for a longer period. Waiting for symptoms to occur, however, risks the development of Left Ventricular (LV) dysfunction and there is a small risk (~0.4% /year) of sudden death

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Last date updated on April, 2024