Ascending aortic pressure-derived indices are associated with the presence and severity of aortic stenosis

Abstract

Background. Almost the same pathophysiological mechanism has been suggested for both atherosclerosis and calcific aortic stenosis (AS). In this study, we examined any association between ascending aortic pressure-derived indices and hemodynamic characteristics of calcific AS. Methods. A total of 90 patients were studied (26 males, 64 females; mean age: 64.4 ± 11.3 years). The study population consisted of two groups: AS and a control group. Both groups were well matched. Ascending aortic pressure-derived indices were obtained from all patients via catheterization. Results. Two groups were well matched according to demographic characteristics. Aortic pulse/FPPs (fractional pulse pressure = aortic pulse pressure/ aortic mean pressure), and PI (pulsatility index = aortic pulse pressure/aortic diastolic pressure) were significantly higher in patients with AS than in those without. Mean aortic mean gradient had significant positive correlation with aortic diastolic pressure, FPP and PI. The multiple-adjusted odds ratios of the risk of AS was 4.51 (95% CI 1.63–12.48) and 4.34 (95% CI 1.59–11.88) for the higher aortic FPP and PI levels compared with lower levels, respectively. Conclusion. Ascending aortic pressure-derived indices were significantly and independently associated with the presence and severity of calcific AS. This confirms the participation of blood pressure in the pathogenesis of AS.