Pattern of aortic dilatation in different bicuspid aortic valve phenotypes and its association with aortic valvular dysfunction and elasticity.

OBJECTIVES

We aim to study the pattern of aortic dilatation in different BAV phenotypes and to find any correlations between aortic dilatation, aortic elasticity and AS and/or AR in our local population.

METHODS

All BAV patients and controls were retrospectively studied. Aortic distensibility and stiffness index of the ascending aorta were calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 191 patients with BAV and 180 controls were enrolled. Aortic dilatation involving a single site was more common with dilatation involving only the ascending aorta (R-N phenotype) and aortic root (N-L phenotype). AR was most common in patients with N-L and R-L phenotypes and AS in R-N phenotype. Aortic elasticity had no correlation with the different BAV phenotypes.

CONCLUSIONS

There are different patterns of aortic dilatation in different BAV phenotypes, which may further contribute to the development of aortic stenosis or regurgitation. Aortic elasticity is independent of the BAV phenotypes and is impaired in BAV patients regardless of AS or AR severity.