Aortic regurgitation

Evaluation of aortic regurgitation requires consideration of valve morphology, mechanism and severity of regurgitation and assessment of aortic dilatation. In asymptomatic patients with severe aortic regurgitation, follow-up of symptomatic status and LV size and function is mandatory. The strongest indication for valve surgery is the presence of symptoms and/or the documentation of LVEF <50% and/or end-systolic diameter =50 mm. In patients with dilated aorta, definition of aortic pathology and accurate measurements of aortic diameters are crucial. Surgery is recommended whenever aortic dilation is = 55 mm or = 50 mm in patients with bicuspid aortic valves and Marfan syndrome or =45 mm when additional risk factors are present. For patients who have an indication for valve surgery, an aortic diameter of ≥45 mm is considered to indicate concomitant surgery of the aorta. Aortic valve repair and valve-sparing aortic surgery instead of aortic valve replacement should be considered in selected cases in experienced centres.