Valvulo-arterial impedance in patients with severe aortic stenosis and bicuspid aortic valve

Abstract Background Valvulo-arterial impedance (Zva) is an integrated measure of global left ventricular (LV) afterload, combining both valvular and arterial load. Recent studies have identified Zva as a marker of worse LV remodeling and of adverse outcomes in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) and tricuspid aortic valves (TAV). However, its prognostic significance in patients with severe AS and bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) remains unclear. Purpose To evaluate the association between Zva and all-cause mortality in patients with severe AS and BAV, and to examine the relationship between Zva and markers of LV remodeling. Methods A total of 164 patients (age 63±14 years, 60% male) with severe AS and BAV were included from two Centers. Severe AS was defined as an aortic valve area (AVA)