Abnormal Systolic Intraventricular Flow Velocities After Valve Replacement for Aortic Stenosis

Abstract

First, AFV occurs in 14% of patients at rest after valve replacement for aortic stenosis and can be provoked or worsened by ventricular unloading or inotropic stimulation. Second, AFV is related more frequently to cavity squeezing than to systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve apparatus. Third, a typical pattern (small, hyperdynamic, and asymmetrically hypertrophied ventricle) is predictive for postoperative AFV and should be taken into account for the postoperative management. Finally, the presence of AFV at rest is associated with high in-hospital morbidity but good long-term prognosis.