Protocolo diagnóstico y terapéutico de la valvulopatía aórtica en el anciano

Abstract

Aortic valve disease, predominantly aortic stenosis, is a common condition in older adults due to aging and progressive calcification of the aortic valve. In this population, symptoms such as dyspnea, angina, and syncope are frequent and associated with a worse prognosis if not treated promptly. Diagnosis includes a detailed clinical evaluation together with echocardiographic studies, which are essential in order to determine the severity and hemodynamic repercussion of the disease. Other tools such as computed tomography may be useful to assess valve calcification. The treatment of older adults requires an individualized approach that considers frailty and comorbidities. Valve replacement, either by conventional surgery or transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), is the mainstay of treatment in patients with severe symptomatic stenosis. TAVI has emerged as a less invasive option and is currently the preferred choice in older adults at high surgical risk.