Improvement of Ultrasonic Myocardial Properties after Aortic Valve Replacement for Pure Severe Aortic Stenosis: The Predictive Value of Ultrasonic Tissue Characterization for Left Ventricle Reverse Remodeling

Abstract

Aortic stenosis leads to left ventricular hypertrophy and accumulation of fibrillar collagens. The analysis of integrated backscatter (IBS) parameters provides information on ultrasonic myocardial properties. The study population consisted of 58 patients with aortic stenosis. They were followed up for an average 18 ± 5 months after aortic valve replacement (AVR). Traditional transthoracic echocardiography and analysis of IBS reflectivity were performed before AVR and during the control visit after AVR. A significant reduction in left ventricular mass index, a significant increase in the mean cyclic variation of IBS, and a decrease in absolute end-diastolic IBS intensity were observed after AVR. These data suggest improvements in ultrasonic myocardial properties after AVR. Preoperative analysis of IBS parameters might provide additional information for predicting left ventricular reverse remodeling in patients a mean of 1.5 years after AVR for aortic stenosis.