Aortic valve disease: a practical clinical approach.

The diagnosis and treatment of aortic valve disease can be challenging for the clinician. Aortic regurgitation (AR) may be evaluated with Doppler echocardiography or catheterization. Medical therapy consists of vasodilators. Surgery may be appropriate for patients with symptoms, left ventricular dilatation or diminished left ventricle systolic function. Aortic stenosis (AS) can be evaluated with the same modalities as AR. There is evidence that statin therapy may slow the progression of AS. Contrary to conventional wisdom, vasodilators are safe and effective in certain patients. Surgical valve replacement is performed for symptoms and in certain asymptomatic patients.