Grading Criteria for Aortic Valve Stenosis

Aortic valve stenosis is primarily classified based on the degree of narrowing in the valve orifice area or the pressure gradient across the valve. This classification helps in determining the severity of the condition and guiding appropriate treatment strategies.

Classification by Valve Orifice Area

The valve orifice area is a key parameter in assessing the severity of aortic stenosis. Normally, the aortic valve orifice area ranges between 3–4 cm². When this area decreases due to narrowing, it is categorized as follows:

When the valve orifice area remains above 1.5 cm², the condition is classified as mild aortic stenosis. If the orifice area narrows to between 1.0 and 1.5 cm², it is considered moderate aortic stenosis. In cases where the valve area falls below 1.0 cm², the stenosis is classified as severe aortic stenosis.

Classification by Transvalvular Pressure Gradient

The transvalvular pressure gradient measures the pressure difference between the left ventricle and the aorta during systole. This metric also plays a crucial role in determining the severity of the condition:

If the pressure gradient remains below 30 mmHg, the stenosis is categorized as mild. A gradient ranging from 30 to 50 mmHg indicates moderate stenosis. When the pressure difference exceeds 50 mmHg, it is classified as severe aortic valve stenosis.

Importance of Timely Medical Intervention

Patients experiencing significant symptoms or showing evidence of hemodynamic compromise should seek medical attention promptly. Physicians evaluate the condition based on clinical presentation, structural heart changes, and functional assessments to determine the need for surgical intervention. In advanced cases, valve replacement surgery may be recommended to restore normal blood flow and prevent complications such as heart failure or sudden cardiac events.