Aortic Stenosis Echocardiographic Findings

Aortic stenosis can be effectively evaluated using two-dimensional echocardiography, which typically reveals thickened aortic valve leaflets. During assessment, the valve's opening distance is measured to determine the severity of the condition. Characteristic findings include leaflet thickening, increased echogenicity, restricted valve motion, and commissural fusion. The parasternal short-axis view allows for accurate measurement of the valve orifice area, providing critical diagnostic information.

Echocardiographic Techniques in Aortic Stenosis Evaluation

M-mode and two-dimensional echocardiography demonstrate thickened aortic valves with significantly reduced opening amplitude. Left ventricular hypertrophy is commonly observed due to chronic pressure overload. These imaging modalities provide essential structural information about valve morphology and ventricular adaptation.

Role of Doppler Imaging

Color Doppler and pulsed-wave Doppler techniques offer valuable hemodynamic insights that enhance the accuracy of two-dimensional findings. Color Doppler imaging typically reveals a high-velocity systolic jet across the aortic valve, characterized by a mosaic pattern of turbulent flow. This colorful jet often extends into the ascending aorta, which may appear dilated in chronic stenosis cases.

Quantitative Assessment of Aortic Stenosis

Pulsed and continuous-wave Doppler evaluations demonstrate characteristic high-velocity jet spectral patterns across the aortic valve. Quantitative diagnosis involves measuring transvalvular pressure gradients and calculating valve orifice area. In clinically significant stenosis, peak jet velocity typically exceeds 2 meters per second. Severe aortic stenosis is generally defined by jet velocities greater than 4.5 meters per second, which serves as a key criterion for diagnostic confirmation and clinical decision-making.