Valvular aortic stenosis as a major sequelae in patients with pre-existing subaortic stenosis changing spectrum of outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of valvular aortic stenosis requiring surgery in patients with a pre-existing diagnosis of subaortic stenosis.

BACKGROUND

Classic teachings emphasize aortic regurgitation as the most common complication associated with discrete subaortic stenosis. We hypothesized that significant aortic stenosis may also be an important valve lesion associated with this condition.

METHODS

Clinical outcomes in patients with subaortic stenosis were examined. The primary outcome of interest was the prevalence of valvular aortic stenosis requiring surgery (surgical valvotomy or valve replacement). Logistic regression was used to identify variables associated with the need for surgery for aortic stenosis.

RESULTS

One hundred twenty-one adults with subaortic stenosis (median age 32 years) were evaluated in our clinic. Associated lesions were common: 23% had bicuspid valves and 21% had coarctation of the aorta. Seventy-nine percent of the patients had at least 1 surgical resection of subaortic tissue (median age 12 years). Moderate to severe aortic regurgitation was present in 16% of patients (19 of 121), 3 of whom required surgical intervention in adulthood. Twenty-six percent of patients (32 of 121) required surgery for valvular aortic stenosis. Valve surgery for aortic stenosis was more common in patients with concomitant bicuspid aortic valve disease (p = 0.008), coarctation of the aorta (p = 0.03), and supravalvular stenosis (p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Valvular aortic stenosis is a surprisingly common finding in patients with discrete subaortic stenosis. Careful clinical follow-up of this population to monitor aortic valve status continues to be warranted even after a successful surgical resection.