Aortic Stenosis

Aortic stenosis is a condition that affects the heart, specifically the valve between the heart's left ventricle and the aorta. This valve normally opens fully to allow blood to flow from the heart to the rest of the body. In aortic stenosis, the valve becomes narrowed or stiff, making it harder for blood to pass through. This can cause the heart to work harder and may lead to symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and fainting. Over time, the heart muscle can become thickened and less efficient. The condition mainly affects the cardiovascular system and can significantly impact overall health if untreated.

Aortic stenosis is a pathological narrowing of the aortic valve orifice, resulting in obstruction of left ventricular outflow during systole. The most common causes include degenerative calcification of a trileaflet valve in older adults, bicuspid aortic valve congenital malformation, and less commonly, rheumatic heart disease. This obstruction increases left ventricular pressure, leading to concentric hypertrophy and eventually left ventricular dysfunction. Clinically, it is significant due to its association with angina, syncope, and heart failure. The severity of stenosis is defined by valve area reduction and pressure gradients across the valve. Untreated severe aortic stenosis carries a high risk of morbidity and mortality.