Aortic Valve Flow Rate may be a Good Parameter for Cardiac Risk

Dobutamine echocardiography is a stress test used to determine cardiac risk
Researchers from Mayo Clinic believe that the aortic valve flow rate may be a good parameter to stratify risk in patients with low-flow, low-gradient aortic stenosis
The test could help doctors decide on the future course of treatment for the patient

Assessment of the aortic valve flow rate during a dobutamine echocardiogram may be a good indicator of cardiac risk, according to a study being presented at the American Society of Echocardiography 27th Annual Scientific Sessions at in Seattle.

Dobutamine echocardiography is a test that is used to evaluate the risk of heart disease. The risk stratification helps the cardiologist offer appropriate treatment to the patient. Most people usually undergo the treadmill test to check their cardiac condition.

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‘The aortic valve flow rate may be a good parameter to stratify risk in patients with narrowing of the aortic valve.’

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In the treadmill test, the patient is made to jog on a treadmill so that the heart rate increases and an additional stress is applied to the heart. The ability of the heart to bear additional stress as indicated on an electrocardiogram (ECG) gives an idea of the heart health of the heart.

Dobutamine Echocardiogram is a stress test that is particularly useful in patients who cannot undergo a treadmill test. Echocardiography is a test that uses sound waves that are reflected from the heart and give a video image of the structure and functioning of the heart. During the test, dobutamine is sometimes given by injection.

Dobutamine increases the heart rate and force of contraction, thereby increasing the stress on the heart. The test helps to detect abnormalities in blood flow to the heart muscle or the condition of heart valves.

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Researchers Said Alsidawi and others from Mayo Clinic believe that measurement of a parameter called the aortic valve flow rate during a dobutamine echocardiogram test may be a good indicator of the risk of certain patients for a cardiac event.

The aortic valve is the valve at the junction of the left ventricle of the heart and the aorta, the main artery of the body. It ensures that blood flows in a single direction and prevents backflow of blood to the heart. Narrowing of the aortic valve is called aortic stenosis.

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The aortic valve flow rate is likely to be particularly useful for patients with low-flow, low-gradient aortic stenosis. It could help the cardiologist decide whether the patient has to go in for a valve replacement surgery or any other treatment.

References:

CALCULATING AORTIC FLOW RATE SUPERIOR TEST FOR PATIENT RISK STRATIFICATION
http://asecho.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Alsidawi-Mayo-Aortic-Flow-Rate-Release.pdf

Source-Medindia

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