Diagnostics (Jul 2023)

Echocardiographic Evaluation of Aortic Stenosis: A Comprehensive Review

  • Rachele Manzo,
  • Federica Ilardi,
  • Dalila Nappa,
  • Andrea Mariani,
  • Domenico Angellotti,
  • Maddalena Immobile Molaro,
  • Giulia Sgherzi,
  • Domenico Simone Castiello,
  • Fiorenzo Simonetti,
  • Ciro Santoro,
  • Mario Enrico Canonico,
  • Marisa Avvedimento,
  • Raffaele Piccolo,
  • Anna Franzone,
  • Giovanni Esposito

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics13152527
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 13, no. 15
p. 2527

Abstract

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Echocardiography represents the most important diagnostic tool in the evaluation of aortic stenosis. The echocardiographic assessment of its severity should always be performed through a standardized and stepwise approach in order to achieve a comprehensive evaluation. The latest technical innovations in the field of echocardiography have improved diagnostic accuracy, guaranteeing a better and more detailed evaluation of aortic valve anatomy. An early diagnosis is of utmost importance since it shortens treatment delays and improves patient outcomes. Echocardiography plays a key role also in the evaluation of all the structural changes related to aortic stenosis. Detailed evaluation of subtle and subclinical changes in left ventricle function has a prognostic significance: scientific efforts have been addressed to identify the most accurate global longitudinal strain cut-off value able to predict adverse outcomes. Moreover, in recent years the role of artificial intelligence is increasingly emerging as a promising tool able to assist cardiologists in aortic stenosis screening and diagnosis, especially by reducing the rate of aortic stenosis misdiagnosis.

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