Normal Aortic Valve Pressure Gradient

The aortic valve serves as the exit point from the heart, allowing blood to flow from the left ventricle into the aorta, which helps generate blood pressure and prevents backflow of blood into the heart.

Understanding Aortic Valve Pressure Gradient

In a healthy heart, the aortic valve is positioned between the left ventricle and the aorta, and under normal conditions, there is virtually no pressure difference, or gradient, across the valve. This means the pressure gradient should be close to 0 mmHg.

Pressure Gradient and Aortic Stenosis

However, when the aortic valve becomes narrowed—a condition known as aortic stenosis—a pressure gradient begins to develop. This gradient is a key indicator used by doctors to assess the severity of the narrowing.

A pressure gradient of more than 20 mmHg typically indicates mild stenosis. When the gradient reaches between 50 and 80 mmHg, it is classified as moderate stenosis. A gradient exceeding 80 mmHg is considered severe aortic stenosis.

Why the Pressure Gradient Matters

The pressure gradient across the aortic valve is a crucial diagnostic parameter. It reflects the degree of obstruction to blood flow caused by valve narrowing and helps guide treatment decisions. As the gradient increases, so does the risk of symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and even heart failure, making early detection and management essential.