Role of Echocardiography in Balloon Dilatation of Aortic Valve

Abstract

Aortic valve obstruction accounts for majority of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction. When present in neonatal age group, presentation is more severe and is mostly due to unicomissural aortic valve while at later age, bicuspid aortic valve is the most common cause for aortic stenosis. Echocardiography plays an importance role in the diagnosis and to assess the anatomy for suitability for balloon valvuloplasty. Its role also extends to assess the left ventricle size and function, to diagnose associated lesions and to suggest the suitable plan of management. Echocardiography also plays an important role immediately after balloon dilatation and during follow up to assess adequacy of dilatation and resultant complications. Balloon dilation of bicuspid aortic valves is associated with better outcome and lesser need for reinvention as compared to unicuspid valves.

Keywords

• aortic stenosis
• balloon valvuloplasty
• echocardiography