[Coronary arteriography in severe aortic valve disease].

Three hundred and twelve patients with severe aortic valve disease underwent a pre-operative haemodynamic study including coronary arteriography either as routine (age more than 50 years) or because of chest pains, previous myocardial infarction or for patients with risk factors of coronary atherosclerosis. Significant coronary artery disease was present in 9% of all cases. Coronary artery disease was more frequent in patients with angina and in patients with previous myocardial infarction but none of these factors was specific. We conclude that except young patients < 40 years old, with no chest pain and no coronary risk factors, coronary arteriography is recommended in patients with severe aortic valve disease before aortic valve replacement.