How does the 2D image for aortic stenosis appear?

How does the 2D image for aortic stenosis appear?

• A. Calcified areas usually seen at cusps and associated with reduced valve excursion
• B. Dilation of left ventricle only
• C. Normal cusps with increased excursion
• D. Leaflet prolapse

Answer: (A)

Degenerative calcific aortic stenosis on 2D echocardiography shows calcified cusps with restricted leaflet motion. The calcification stiffens the aortic valve so the leaflets cannot open fully during systole, resulting in reduced valve excursion and a narrowed orifice. This appearance is typical of AS and helps distinguish it from other scenarios: normal cusps with increased excursion would indicate a non-stenotic or hyperdynamic valve; leaflet prolapse points to different valve pathology (often Mitral), and dilation of the left ventricle is a downstream consequence of chronic pressure overload rather than the valve’s appearance itself.

Degenerative calcific aortic stenosis on 2D echocardiography shows calcified cusps with restricted leaflet motion. The calcification stiffens the aortic valve so the leaflets cannot open fully during systole, resulting in reduced valve excursion and a narrowed orifice. This appearance is typical of AS and helps distinguish it from other scenarios: normal cusps with increased excursion would indicate a non-stenotic or hyperdynamic valve; leaflet prolapse points to different valve pathology (often Mitral), and dilation of the left ventricle is a downstream consequence of chronic pressure overload rather than the valve’s appearance itself.