Aortic Valve EOA Equation:
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The Effective Orifice Area (EOA) of the aortic valve is a measurement used to assess the severity of aortic stenosis. It represents the cross-sectional area available for blood flow through the valve during systole.
The calculator uses the continuity equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation is based on the principle of conservation of mass (continuity equation), where the stroke volume in the LVOT equals the stroke volume through the aortic valve.
Details: EOA is crucial for assessing aortic stenosis severity, guiding treatment decisions, and predicting patient outcomes. It's more reliable than pressure gradients alone as it's less flow-dependent.
Tips: Enter LVOT area in cm² (usually calculated from LVOT diameter), VTI LVOT and VTI AV in cm (measured by Doppler echocardiography). All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What are normal EOA values?
A: Normal aortic valve area is 3-4 cm². Values ≤1.0 cm² indicate severe aortic stenosis, though body size should be considered (indexed to body surface area).
Q2: How does EOA relate to life expectancy?
A: Smaller EOA values correlate with worse prognosis. Severe AS (EOA <1.0 cm²) has 50% 2-year mortality without treatment.
Q3: When is this calculation most accurate?
A: Best in native valve assessment with normal LV function. May be less accurate in low-flow states or with irregular rhythms.
Q4: What's the difference between EOA and geometric area?
A: EOA is the functional area (smaller due to flow contraction), while geometric area is the anatomic measurement. EOA better correlates with hemodynamics.
Q5: How often should EOA be measured?
A: In known AS, annual echo is recommended for moderate disease, every 6-12 months for severe asymptomatic AS.