Quadricuspid aortic valves (QAVs) constitute a rare congenital malformation, with an incidence ranging from 0.008 to 0.048%. We report a case of severe aortic regurgitation associated with a QAV, which was diagnosed intraoperatively using transesophageal echocardiography. Since the first case described in 1862, 186 QAVs have been reported. In most cases, QAVs are associated with valve regurgitation, with a concurrent stenosis in some patients, while only a small number of QAVs are functionally normal. Once the diagnosis has been made, echocardiographic follow-up is recommended, as progression to severe valve regurgitation is common. Antibiotic prophylaxis is advisable for dental, and "dirty" surgical procedures, to minimize the risk of infective endocarditis.
Quadricuspid aortic valve as a cause of severe aortic regurgitation
Formica F;
2005-01-01
Abstract
Quadricuspid aortic valves (QAVs) constitute a rare congenital malformation, with an incidence ranging from 0.008 to 0.048%. We report a case of severe aortic regurgitation associated with a QAV, which was diagnosed intraoperatively using transesophageal echocardiography. Since the first case described in 1862, 186 QAVs have been reported. In most cases, QAVs are associated with valve regurgitation, with a concurrent stenosis in some patients, while only a small number of QAVs are functionally normal. Once the diagnosis has been made, echocardiographic follow-up is recommended, as progression to severe valve regurgitation is common. Antibiotic prophylaxis is advisable for dental, and "dirty" surgical procedures, to minimize the risk of infective endocarditis.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
