Evaluation of Pulse Wave Velocity using Transthoracic Echocardiography in Children with Bicuspid Aortic Valve

Abstract Background Increased aortic stiffness in patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) may significantly affect morbidity and mortality. Objective We aimed to evaluate aortic elasticity properties and the usability of the new technique by measuring pulse wave velocity (PWV) with a transthoracic echocardiography device in patients with BAV. Methods Fifty patients with BAV and 50 healthy children with similar demographic characteristics were included in this study. Patients with BAV were grouped according to fused cusp morphology. Valve function was normal or near normal in the patients with BAV included in the study. All patients’ left ventricular function, aortic root diameter, and aortic elasticity characteristics were evaluated. A p-value