Hemodynamic concepts in aortic valve replacement

Abstract

The function of the aortic valve is commonly assessed using echocardiography, an ultrasound-based imaging technique. It is used to determine the need for intervention in patients with a diseased aortic valve and to evaluate the function of heart valve prostheses after replacement. This dissertation focuses on echocardiographic imaging in the context of surgical aortic valve replacement. Specifically, it evaluates the indications for intervention in asymptomatic patients and in those with heart failure, where conventional echocardiographic measurements for aortic valve pathology are not applicable. Additionally, the impact of surgical strategy and suturing technique on patient outcomes is explored. The study also examines the prognostic value of early postoperative parameters for prosthetic heart valve function and investigates how echocardiography can be used to detect structural valve deterioration. These findings contribute to enhancing the diagnosis and treatment of aortic valve pathology.