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Aortic Stenosis

Table of Contents

Aortic Stenosis

Aortic Valve Stenosis; AVS

Aortic valve stenosis (AVS) is a condition characterized by narrowing of the heart's aortic valve opening. This narrowing prevents the valve from opening fully, which obstructs blood flow from the heart into the aorta, and onward to the rest of the body. Learn what tests are available to diagnose this condition and what steps you can take to prevent it.

Blausen 0040 AorticStenosis

Image by BruceBlaus/Wikimedia

Summary

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Aortic valve stenosis

Image by CDC/Dr. Edwin P. Ewing, Jr.

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Aortic valve stenosis

Aortic stenosis rheumatic, gross pathology Gross pathology of rheumatic heart disease: aortic stenosis. Aorta has been removed to show thickened, fused aortic valve leaflets and opened coronary arteries from above. Autopsy.

Image by CDC/Dr. Edwin P. Ewing, Jr.

What Is Aortic Valve Stenosis?

Aortic valve stenosis (AVS) is a condition characterized by narrowing of the heart's aortic valve opening. This narrowing prevents the valve from opening fully, which obstructs blood flow from the heart into the aorta, and onward to the rest of the body. AVS can range from mild to severe. Signs and symptoms typically develop when the narrowing of the opening is severe and may include chest pain (angina) or tightness; shortness of breath or fatigue (especially during exertion); feeling faint or fainting; heart palpitations; and heart murmur. Individuals with less severe congenital AVS (present at birth) may not develop symptoms until adulthood. Individuals with severe cases may faint without warning. The condition can eventually lead to heart failure. AVS can have several causes including abnormal development before birth (such as having 1 or 2 valve leaflets instead of 3); calcium build-up on the valve in adulthood; and rheumatic fever. Treatment may include medications to ease the symptoms, but surgery to repair or replace the valve is the only way to eliminate the condition.

Source: Genetic and Rare Diseases (GARD) Information Center

Additional Materials (8)

Blausen 0040 AorticStenosis

Aortic Stenosis. See a related animation of this medical topic.

Image by BruceBlaus/Wikimedia

Aortic Valve Stenosis and TAVR Overview

Video by UTHealth Houston/YouTube

Aortic Valve Regurgitation vs. Aortic Valve Stenosis

Aortic Valve Regurgitation vs. Aortic Valve Stenosis

Image by BruceBlaus/Wikimedia

Safety Tips on Using a Car Seat

Video by Baby Care 101/YouTube

Aortic Valve Stenosis: An Overview and Potential Treatments

Video by Demystifying Medicine/YouTube

What are the symptoms of aortic valve stenosis?

Video by Swedish/YouTube

Aortic Stenosis in Seniors Explained

Video by Alliance for Aging Research/YouTube

Aortic Stenosis - Overview (signs and symptoms, pathophysiology, treatment)

Video by Armando Hasudungan/YouTube

Blausen 0040 AorticStenosis

BruceBlaus/Wikimedia

3:51

Aortic Valve Stenosis and TAVR Overview

UTHealth Houston/YouTube

Aortic Valve Regurgitation vs. Aortic Valve Stenosis

BruceBlaus/Wikimedia

3:48

Safety Tips on Using a Car Seat

Baby Care 101/YouTube

9:46

Aortic Valve Stenosis: An Overview and Potential Treatments

Demystifying Medicine/YouTube

1:28

What are the symptoms of aortic valve stenosis?

Swedish/YouTube

3:51

Aortic Stenosis in Seniors Explained

Alliance for Aging Research/YouTube

7:59

Aortic Stenosis - Overview (signs and symptoms, pathophysiology, treatment)

Armando Hasudungan/YouTube

Causes

Aortic valve pathology

Image by CardioNetworks: Drj

Aortic valve pathology

Aortic valve pathology

Image by CardioNetworks: Drj

What Causes Aortic Valve Stenosis?

Aortic valve stenosis can be congenital (present at birth) or can develop later in life. When the condition is congenital, it is typically due to abnormal development of the aortic valve - either it forms abnormally narrow, or it is made up of one flap or leaflet (called a unicuspid valve, which is very rare) or two leaflets (bicuspid valve) instead of the usual three. Having a bicuspid valve can run in families. A bicuspid valve may not cause any problems until adulthood, when the valve begins to narrow or leak. In most cases, the exact underlying cause of congenital aortic valve stenosis is unknown. Aortic valve stenosis can also be caused by the buildup of calcium deposits on the heart valve with increasing age. This cause is most common in people older than 65. Rheumatic fever can also cause the condition because it may result in scar tissue forming on the valve, causing the leaflets to stiffen and fuse. Rheumatic fever can also cause a rough surface on the valve, which can lead to accumulation of calcium deposits later in life.

Source: Genetic and Rare Diseases (GARD) Information Center

Association with ART

Human Egg

1

2

3

1) Human Egg 2) Fertilized by a Single Sperm 3) Human Egg with Multiple Sperm trying to penetrate the egg

Interactive by TheVisualMD

Human Egg

1

2

3

1) Human Egg 2) Fertilized by a Single Sperm 3) Human Egg with Multiple Sperm trying to penetrate the egg

1) Human Egg - Scanning Electron Microscopic image of human egg and sperm before fertilization 2) Fertilized by a Single Sperm - Scanning Electron Microscopic image of human egg with single sperm fertilization 3) Human Egg with Multiple Sperm trying to penetrate the egg - Scanning Electron Microscopic image of human egg with multiple sperm

Interactive by TheVisualMD

Is Aortic Stenosis Associated with Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)?

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is known to be associated with an increase in the overall risk of congenital anomalies. However, little specific information exists on the risk of congenital heart defects (CHDs) for fetuses conceived following ART. Although some studies have reported a increased frequency of CHDs in general in IVF pregnancies, this may be due, in part, to an increased frequency of multiple gestation pregnancies (such as twins or triplets) seen among these individuals, as multiple gestation pregnancies are at increased risk for congenital abnormalities. We were unable to find evidence that aortic stenosis specifically has been associated with ART.

Source: Genetic and Rare Diseases (GARD) Information Center

Additional Materials (2)

Does IVF Cause Birth Defects?

Video by InfertilityChannel/YouTube

Understanding Aortic Stenosis with Dr. Marc Gillinov

Video by HeartValveSurgery.com/YouTube

3:53

Does IVF Cause Birth Defects?

InfertilityChannel/YouTube

4:13

Understanding Aortic Stenosis with Dr. Marc Gillinov

HeartValveSurgery.com/YouTube

Other Links

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External Genitalia of a 12 Week Old (Week 13 Gestational Age, Week 12 Fetal Age) Male Fetus

Image by TheVisualMD

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External Genitalia of a 12 Week Old (Week 13 Gestational Age, Week 12 Fetal Age) Male Fetus

Photograph of external genitalia of a 12 week old male fetus. The age is calculated from the day of fertilization. Up until 5 weeks after fertilization, the embryonic sex organs in males and females are essentially identical. Genetically, sex has been assigned but the external structures remain indifferent. During the third month, the external genitalia starts to differentiate. The formation of external genitalia that distinguishes between the male and the female sexes begins at the end of the ninth week of fetal development. The reddish indentation shown above the genitalia is the anus, the opening for solid waste. The external genitalia, seen from the backside, is comprised of the penis, scrotum, and urethra masculina.

Image by TheVisualMD

Is There a Known Link Between Congenital Aortic Stenosis and a Family History of IUGR and Ambiguous Genitalia?

We were unable to locate information about a known association between congenital aortic stenosis and the presence of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and ambiguous genitalia in the family history. It is possible for each of these to occur as isolated abnormalities or they can be associated with a variety of syndromes or other causes of birth defects (either alone or in combination).

Source: Genetic and Rare Diseases (GARD) Information Center

Additional Materials (1)

What are the symptoms of aortic valve stenosis?

Video by Swedish/YouTube

1:28

What are the symptoms of aortic valve stenosis?

Swedish/YouTube

Diagnosis

Congenital Heart Defects

Image by TheVisualMD

Congenital Heart Defects

Genetics and Congenital Heart Defects are risk factors for heart inflammation; endocarditis, myocarditis, and pericarditis.

Image by TheVisualMD

What Kinds of Tests Are Available for a Fetus Diagnosed with Aortic Stenosis?

Aortic valve stenosis (AVS) is not usually associated with malformations outside the heart, although it can sometimes occur with other abnormalities and/or be part of several syndromes or chromosome abnormalities. Further testing for a fetus with AVS often depends on the severity of the condition, whether other abnormalities are detected, and the nature of other abnormalities that are detected. Examples of types of testing that may be available include ultrasounds, amniocentesis to detect a chromosome abnormality or to look for a specific genetic disorder, and/or fetal echocardiogram to monitor and/or look for any other cardiac abnormalities. Individuals interested in further testing for a fetus diagnosed with aortic stenosis should speak with a perinatologist, pediatric cardiologist and/or genetics professional.

Source: Genetic and Rare Diseases (GARD) Information Center

Fetal Echocardiogram

Fetal Echocardiogram

Also called: Fetal echo, Fetal echocardiography

A fetal echocardiogram (also called a fetal echo) uses sound waves to check the heart of your unborn baby. It is used to evaluate the position, size, structure, function and rhythm of your baby's heart.

Fetal Echocardiogram

Also called: Fetal echo, Fetal echocardiography

A fetal echocardiogram (also called a fetal echo) uses sound waves to check the heart of your unborn baby. It is used to evaluate the position, size, structure, function and rhythm of your baby's heart.

{"label":"Fetal Echocardiogram Reference Range","scale":"lin","step":0.25,"hideunits":true,"items":[{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":1},"text":"Your baby's heart structure, rhythm, and blood flow seems to be within normal parameters.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Abnormal","long":"Abnormal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":1,"max":2},"text":"Possible abnormalities in the fetal heart structure or rhythm were detected. ","conditions":["Fetal cardiac anomalies","Heart defects"]}],"value":0.5}[{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
Your result is Normal.
Your baby's heart structure, rhythm, and blood flow seems to be within normal parameters.
Related conditions
You should have this test if any of the following risk factors are present:
- If you or the baby’s father has a congenital heart defect
- If you’ve been exposed to certain dangerous chemicals
- If you have or have had particular diseases (including type I diabetes, lupus, and rubella)
- If you’ve abused drugs or alcohol during pregnancy
- If you’ve taken certain medications
1. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/congenital-heart-defects/symptoms--diagnosis-of-congenital-heart-defects/fetal-echocardiogram-test [accessed on Sep 19, 2019]
2. https://www.healthline.com/health/fetal-echocardiography [accessed on Sep 19, 2019]
3. https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/specialties/heart-center-cardiology/services-we-offer/programs/echocardiography/fetal-echo [accessed on Sep 19, 2019]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (7)

Fetal Circulation

Fetal Circulation

Image by OpenStax College

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Photo of a photo

Annalisa McCormick, spouse of Airman 1st Class Kristopher McCormick, a 35th Civil Engineer Squadron pavement and equipment journeyman, takes a photo of her baby during an ultra sound appointment at Misawa Air Base, Japan, April 10, 2019. An ultrasound, also called a sonogram, monitors fetal development and screens for any potential medical concerns. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Collette Brooks)

Image by U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Collette Brooks

Vascular remodelling in the embryo

Embryonic Development of Heart

Image by OpenStax College

Ultrasound Transducer

A linear array ultrasonic transducer for use in medical ultrasonography

Image by Drickey at English Wikipedia

What is Echocardiography?

Video by Mayo Clinic/YouTube

Chapter- 23 of 24 Truncus arteriosus

Video by Echocardiography in Congenital Heart Disease/YouTube

Head-3D

Fetal Circulation

OpenStax College

Sensitive content

This media may include sensitive content

Photo of a photo

U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Collette Brooks

Vascular remodelling in the embryo

OpenStax College

Ultrasound Transducer

Drickey at English Wikipedia

4:14

What is Echocardiography?

Mayo Clinic/YouTube

25:46

Chapter- 23 of 24 Truncus arteriosus

Echocardiography in Congenital Heart Disease/YouTube

Head-3D

Electrocardiogram

Electrocardiogram

Also called: EKG, ECG

An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a test that measures electrical signals in your heart. An abnormal EKG can be a sign of heart damage or disease.

Electrocardiogram

Also called: EKG, ECG

An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a test that measures electrical signals in your heart. An abnormal EKG can be a sign of heart damage or disease.

{"label":"Electrocardiogram Reference Range","scale":"lin","step":0.25,"hideunits":true,"items":[{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":1},"text":"EKG results are normal with a consistent heartbeat and rhythm. ","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Abnormal","long":"Abnormal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":1,"max":2},"text":"The EKG identified an abnormal heart rhythm.","conditions":["Arrhythmia","Tachycardia","Bradycardia","Myocardial ischemia","Aneurysm","Atherosclerosis","Heart attack"]}],"value":0.5}[{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
Your result is Normal.
EKG results are normal with a consistent heartbeat and rhythm.
Related conditions
An electrocardiogram (EKG) test is a simple, painless, and quick test that records your heart's electrical activity. Each time your heart beats, an electrical signal travels through your heart. The signal triggers your heart's four chambers to contract (squeeze) in the proper rhythm so that your heart can pump blood to your body.
An EKG recording of these signals looks like wavy lines. Your provider can read these lines to look for abnormal heart activity that may be a sign of heart disease or damage.
An EKG can show:
- How fast your heart is beating
- Whether the rhythm of your heartbeat is steady or irregular
- The strength and timing of the electrical signals passing through each part of your heart
Sometimes information from an EKG can help measure the size and position of your heart's chambers.
An EKG is often the first test you'll have if you have signs of a heart condition. It may be done in your provider's office, an outpatient clinic, in a hospital before surgery, or as part of another heart test called a stress test.
An EKG test is also called an ECG. EKG is based on the German spelling, elektrokardiogramm. EKG may be preferred over ECG to avoid confusion with an EEG, a test that measures brain waves.
An EKG test is used to help diagnose and monitor many types of heart conditions and their treatment. These conditions include:
- Arrhythmia
- Cardiomyopathy
- Coronary artery disease
- Heart attack
- Heart failure
- Heart valve diseases
- Congenital heart defects
EKG tests are mainly used for people who have symptoms of a heart condition or have already been diagnosed with a heart condition. They are not generally used to screen people who don't have symptoms unless they have an increased risk of developing heart disease. Your provider can explain your risk for heart disease and let you know if need to have an EKG test. In certain cases, your provider may have you see a cardiologist, a doctor who specializes in heart diseases.
You may need an EKG test if you have symptoms of a heart condition, including:
- Chest pain
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- A decrease in your ability to exercise
You may also need an EKG to:
- Find out if you had a heart attack in the past but didn't know it
- Monitor your heart if you have a known heart condition
- Check how well your heart treatment is working, including medicine and/or a pacemaker
- Check your heart health:
  Before having surgery
  If you have an increased risk for developing heart disease because:
  Heart disease runs in your family
  You have another condition, such as diabetes, that makes your risk higher than normal
An EKG test only takes a few minutes. It generally includes these steps:
- You will lie on an exam table.
- A provider will place several electrodes (small sensors that stick to your skin) on your arms, legs, and chest. The provider may need to shave body hair to make sure the electrodes stay on.
- The electrodes are attached by wires to a computer or a special EKG machine
- You will lie very still while your heart's electrical activity is recorded on a computer or printed on paper by an EKG machine.
An EKG is a "snapshot" of your heart's activity over a very short time. If you have heart symptoms that come and go, a regular EKG may not catch the problem. In that case, your provider may recommend that you wear a small portable EKG monitor that can record your heart for days or longer while you do your normal activities. You may also need a longer EKG recording if your provider wants to check how well your heart is working after a heart attack or to see if treatment is helping you.
There are many types of long-term EKG monitors. The two main groups are Holter monitors, which can be worn for up to two days, and event monitors, which may record your heart activity for weeks to years depending on the type.
A Holter monitor is about the size of a small camera. You usually wear it on a belt or strap around your neck for a day or two. Wires under your clothes attach to electrodes that stick to your chest. The monitor records your heart's electrical signals the whole time you're wearing it. You may be asked to keep a diary of your symptoms during the test period. After the test period, you remove the monitor and return it according to the instructions. A provider will review the recording of your heart's electrical activity from the monitor.
An event monitor records your heart's electrical activity when you press a button or when the device detects abnormal heart activity. There two main types of event monitors:
- Event monitors that you wear or carry with you. You wear some monitors on your chest or wrist. Other monitors are designed to carry. If you have symptoms, you hold the monitor to your chest. These event monitors may be used for weeks to months. Some of them wirelessly transmit information about your heart to a provider. Others must be returned so a provider can examine the recorded information.
- Event monitors that are inserted under the skin of your chest. These are called implantable event monitors. They are put under your skin during minor surgery that's often done in a doctor's office. These monitors can track your heart's electrical activity for years. You may need this type of EKG monitor if you had a stroke or frequent fainting, and your provider hasn't found the cause. Implantable monitors wirelessly transmit the information they record so your provider can regularly check it.
1. Electrocardiogram: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Mar 09, 2023]
2. Electrocardiogram: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Feb 04, 2019]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (35)

How to Read an Electrocardiogram (ECG): Introduction – Cardiology | Lecturio

Video by Lecturio Medical/YouTube

Major Types of Heart Block

Video by Jeff Otjen/YouTube

How An ECG Works

Video by LivingHealthyChicago/YouTube

This browser does not support the video element.

What are Arrhythmias?

Your heart is electric. In this video you'll see how your heart's electrical system works, and what happens when it malfunctions. Voyage inside the human body as Dr. Mehmet Oz and others explain the dangers of heart arrhythmias, including tachycardia, bradycardia, and atrial fibrillation.

Video by TheVisualMD

12 Lead ECG Explained, Animation

Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube

Bundle Branch Block, Animation.

Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube

QRS Transitional Zone. See link for real voice update in description!

Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube

ECG Interpretation Basics - ST Segment Changes. See link for real voice update in description!

Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube

Cardiac Axis Interpretation. See link for real voice update in description!

Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube

Electrical system of the heart | Circulatory system physiology | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Cardiovascular | EKG Basics

Video by Ninja Nerd/YouTube

Cardiovascular | EKG's

Video by Ninja Nerd/YouTube

Normal sinus rhythm on an EKG | Circulatory System and Disease | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Cardiac Conduction System and Understanding ECG, Animation.

Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube

Willem Einthoven and the ECG - Stuff of Genius

Video by Stuff of Genius - HowStuffWorks/YouTube

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

A useful tool for determining whether a person has heart disease, an electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart. An ECG, which is painless (no electricity is sent through the body), is used to measure damage to the heart, how fast the heart is beating and whether it is beating normally, the effects of drugs or devices used to control the heart (such as a pacemaker), and the size and position of the heart chambers.

Image by TheVisualMD

Cardiac cycle

Cardiac Cycle vs Electrocardiogram

Image by OpenStax College

Medical Checkups

Image by TheVisualMD

Electrocardiogram

Electrocardiograms (EKGs) are the most commonly given test used to diagnose coronary artery disease. They record the heart's electrical activity and show evidence of angina or heart attack.

Image by TheVisualMD

electrocardiogram-illustration made up from Medications

https://pixabay.com/en/electrocardiogram-blood-pressure-ekg-2858693/

Image by GDJ

Electrocardiogram

A normal tracing shows the P wave, QRS complex, and T wave. Also indicated are the PR, QT, QRS, and ST intervals, plus the P-R and S-T segments.

Image by CNX Openstax

What To Expect After an Electrocardiogram

Normal ECG/EKG complex with labels

Image by Derivative: Hazmat2 Original: Hank van Helvete

Cardiac Stress Test

The image shows a patient having a stress test. Electrodes are attached to the patient's chest and connected to an EKG (electrocardiogram) machine. The EKG records the heart's electrical activity. A blood pressure cuff is used to record the patient's blood pressure while he walks on a treadmill.

Image by National Heart Lung and Blood Institute

Relationship between the Cardiac Cycle and ECG

Initially, both the atria and ventricles are relaxed (diastole). The P wave represents depolarization of the atria and is followed by atrial contraction (systole). Atrial systole extends until the QRS complex, at which point, the atria relax. The QRS complex represents depolarization of the ventricles and is followed by ventricular contraction. The T wave represents the repolarization of the ventricles and marks the beginning of ventricular relaxation.

Image by CNX Openstax

The Electric Heart

Image by TheVisualMD

Electrocardiogram (EKG)

Electrocardiogram (EKG) is a test used to measure the electrical activity of the heart.

Image by U.S. National Library of Medicine

Comparison of Arrhythmia and Normal ECG

As the muscle tissue in an overstressed heart expands, it tears and scars. The resulting tissue - hardened and marred - does not conduct electricity well. The result is that the system can no longer be relied on to deliver the carefully synchronized pattern of jolts needed to keep the heart pumping smoothly. Doctors call it \"arrhythmia.\" The heart is literally \"skipping a beat.\" This can be measured by an electrocardiogram (ECG). In some cases, arrhythmia can mean simply that the heartbeat is too fast or too slow - a bothersome but not necessarily life-threatening condition. In the worst cases, the arrhythmia indicates a potentially lethal instability in the heart's electric system. The signals that control the heart's contractions get crossed and the heart spasms. If not corrected immediately, this fibrillation of the heart is often fatal. In the U.S., more than 1,000 people die every day from sudden cardiac death, or cardiac arrest.

Image by TheVisualMD

Heart Revealing Chamber and Valve

Your heart beats faster or slower depending on information from your brain, which monitors your body's need for blood. However, the basic rhythm of your heart is automatic; it does not depend on signals from your brain. Your heart cells can generate their own electrical signals, which trigger the contractions and cause the entire heart to pump in synchrony. A specialized bundle of muscle and nerve cells called the sinoatrial node (SA node) sits at the top of the right atrium and is the pacemaker of the heart. It generates the signal for the atria to contract and send blood to the ventricles. A similar node - the atrioventricular or AV node - sits at the atrioventricular septum near the bottom of the right atrium and relays the signal from the SA node to the ventricles to contract and pump blood out of the heart. An electrocardiogram (ECG) measures the electrical signals given off by these two nodes and their conduction through the heart. By looking at the frequency and the height of the peaks and valleys of these signals on an ECG, healthcare professionals get a very good idea of how well the electrical system of your heart is working.

Image by TheVisualMD

Electrocardigram

An electrocardiogram (EKG) detects and records the heart's electrical activity. When the electrical impulse passes through the atria a small peak is recorded (P), followed by a steep spike as it erupts through the ventricles (R), and then another small peak (T) as the wave passes through and the heart repolarizes (recharges) itself for the next beat.

Image by TheVisualMD

Electro- cardiogram

Electrocardiograms, or EKGs, record the electrical activity of the heart. Since injured heart muscle conducts electrical impulses abnormally, the EKG shows if the patient has had or is having a heart attack. It is usually the first test performed.

Image by TheVisualMD

SinusRhythmLabels

Schematic diagram of normal sinus rhythm for a human heart as seen on ECG. In atrial fibrillation, however, the P waves, which represent depolarization of the atria, are absent.

Image by Agateller (Anthony Atkielski)

How To Use an Automated External Defibrillator

The image shows a typical setup using an automated external defibrillator (AED). The AED has step-by-step instructions and voice prompts that enable an untrained bystander to correctly use the machine.

Image by National Heart Lung and Blood Institute

Who Needs an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator?

Lead II (2) ECG EKG strip of an AICD ICD converting a patient back into thier baseline cardiac ryhthm. The AICD fires near the end of the strip, where the straight line is seen.

Image by Public Domain

Cardiac Cycle

CG Animated Human Heart cut section showing the atria, ventricles and valves, synced with wiggers diagram.

Image by DrJanaOfficial/Wikimedia

Mammalian Heart and Blood Vessels

The beating of the heart is regulated by an electrical impulse that causes the characteristic reading of an ECG. The signal is initiated at the sinoatrial valve. The signal then (a) spreads to the atria, causing them to contract. The signal is (b) delayed at the atrioventricular node before it is passed on to the (c) heart apex. The delay allows the atria to relax before the (d) ventricles contract. The final part of the ECG cycle prepares the heart for the next beat.

Image by CNX Openstax

9:53

How to Read an Electrocardiogram (ECG): Introduction – Cardiology | Lecturio

Lecturio Medical/YouTube

9:23

Major Types of Heart Block

Jeff Otjen/YouTube

2:45

How An ECG Works

LivingHealthyChicago/YouTube

3:27

What are Arrhythmias?

TheVisualMD

3:27

12 Lead ECG Explained, Animation

Alila Medical Media/YouTube

3:48

Bundle Branch Block, Animation.

Alila Medical Media/YouTube

3:50

QRS Transitional Zone. See link for real voice update in description!

Alila Medical Media/YouTube

1:24

ECG Interpretation Basics - ST Segment Changes. See link for real voice update in description!

Alila Medical Media/YouTube

3:32

Cardiac Axis Interpretation. See link for real voice update in description!

Alila Medical Media/YouTube

9:43

Electrical system of the heart | Circulatory system physiology | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

52:29

Cardiovascular | EKG Basics

Ninja Nerd/YouTube

20:37

Cardiovascular | EKG's

Ninja Nerd/YouTube

8:53

Normal sinus rhythm on an EKG | Circulatory System and Disease | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

3:45

Cardiac Conduction System and Understanding ECG, Animation.

Alila Medical Media/YouTube

1:46

Willem Einthoven and the ECG - Stuff of Genius

Stuff of Genius - HowStuffWorks/YouTube

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

TheVisualMD

Cardiac cycle

OpenStax College

Medical Checkups

TheVisualMD

Electrocardiogram

TheVisualMD

electrocardiogram-illustration made up from Medications

GDJ

Electrocardiogram

CNX Openstax

What To Expect After an Electrocardiogram

Derivative: Hazmat2 Original: Hank van Helvete

Cardiac Stress Test

National Heart Lung and Blood Institute

Relationship between the Cardiac Cycle and ECG

CNX Openstax

The Electric Heart

TheVisualMD

Electrocardiogram (EKG)

U.S. National Library of Medicine

Comparison of Arrhythmia and Normal ECG

TheVisualMD

Heart Revealing Chamber and Valve

TheVisualMD

Electrocardigram

TheVisualMD

Electro- cardiogram

TheVisualMD

SinusRhythmLabels

Agateller (Anthony Atkielski)

How To Use an Automated External Defibrillator

National Heart Lung and Blood Institute

Who Needs an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator?

Public Domain

Cardiac Cycle

DrJanaOfficial/Wikimedia

Mammalian Heart and Blood Vessels

CNX Openstax

Amniocentesis

Amniocentesis

Also called: Amnio, Amniotic Fluid Test, AFT, Amniotic Fluid Analysis

Amniocentesis is a test done during pregnancy, usually between weeks 15 and 20. It uses a sample of amniotic fluid to diagnose certain genetic disorders, birth defects, and other health problems in an unborn baby.

Amniocentesis

Also called: Amnio, Amniotic Fluid Test, AFT, Amniotic Fluid Analysis

Amniocentesis is a test done during pregnancy, usually between weeks 15 and 20. It uses a sample of amniotic fluid to diagnose certain genetic disorders, birth defects, and other health problems in an unborn baby.

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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
Your result is Normal.
A normal or negative result means that there were 46 chromosomes in the sample without any unusual changes in their structure. Normal karyotypes for females contain two X chromosomes and are denoted 46,XX; males have both an X and a Y chromosome denoted 46,XY.
Related conditions
Amniocentesis is used to diagnose certain health problems in an unborn baby. It is commonly used to find:
- Genetic and chromosomal disorders, including:
  Down syndrome, a disorder that causes intellectual disabilities and other health problems
  Cystic fibrosis, a disease of the mucus and sweat glands that causes thick sticky mucus, which can lead to problems with breathing and digestion
  Sickle cell disease, a group of red blood cell disorders that can cause anemia and other health problems
  Tay-Sachs disease, a disease that destroys nerve cells, causes mental and physical problems, and often death in early childhood (uncommon)
- Neural tube defects, severe birth defects of the baby's brain and/or spine, such as spina bifida and anencephaly.
The test may also be used to:
- Check your baby's lung development if you have a risk for giving birth too soon (premature birth). In this case, amniocentesis is done later in pregnancy.
- Diagnose an infection or certain other illnesses in the baby
Having amniocentesis is your choice. You may want this test if you have a high risk for having a baby with a health problem. You may have an increased risk if:
- You are age 35 or older. (The risk of having a baby with a genetic disorder increases with age.)
- You had a prenatal screening test that shows your baby might have a problem.
- You or your partner have a family history of a genetic disorder or neural tube defect.
- You or your partner had genetic testing that showed you carry a genetic disorder.
- You or your partner have a child with a genetic disorder or birth defect.
Amniocentesis isn't right for everyone. Before you decide to get tested, think about how you'd feel and what you might do after learning the results.
The test is usually done between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. It is sometimes done later in pregnancy to check the baby's lung development or diagnose certain infections or illnesses, such as anemia in the unborn baby caused by Rh incompatibility.
During the procedure:
- You'll lie on your back on an exam table.
- Your provider may apply a numbing medicine to your abdomen.
- Your provider will move an ultrasound wand-like device, called a transducer, on your belly. Ultrasound uses sound waves to show the position of your baby and placenta so your provider can see where to take a sample of amniotic fluid.
- Your provider will insert a thin needle into your abdomen and withdraw a small amount of amniotic fluid.
- When the sample is removed, your provider will check your baby's heartbeat with the ultrasound.
The procedure usually takes about 15 minutes. Afterwards, you may be told to avoid any hard exercise or physical activity for the next 24 hours.
Amniotic fluid may be tested for many different disorders. Your test results will depend on which tests your provider ordered.
- Normal results are reported as "normal" or "negative." This means that it's very unlikely that your baby has the disorder that was tested, but it does not guarantee your baby will not have any health problems.
- Results that are not normal are reported as "abnormal" or "positive." This means that your baby very likely has the disorder that was tested.
Your provider will explain your test results. Amniocentesis is very accurate, but in certain cases, your provider may order more tests to learn about your baby's health.
It may help to speak to a genetic counselor before testing and/or after you get your results. A genetic counselor is a specially trained professional in genetics and genetic testing who can help you understand what your results mean.
1. Amniocentesis (amniotic fluid test): MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
2. Amniocentesis: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 17, 2019]
3. Diagnosis of Birth Defects | CDC [accessed on Jan 17, 2019]
4. Amniocentesis. Test in pregnancy, amniocentesis information. | Patient [accessed on Jan 17, 2019]
5. Amniocentesis - Health Encyclopedia - University of Rochester Medical Center [accessed on Jan 17, 2019]
6. Amniotic Fluid Analysis [accessed on Jan 17, 2019]
7. Amniocentesis - InsideRadiology [accessed on Jan 17, 2019]
8. Amniocentesis - NHS [accessed on Jan 17, 2019]
9. Amniocentesis - American Pregnancy Association [accessed on Jan 17, 2019]
10. Amniocentesis Procedure [accessed on Jan 17, 2019]
11. Amniocentesis | March of Dimes [accessed on Jan 17, 2019]

Additional Materials (10)

Amniocentesis

Amniocentesis

Image by TheVisualMD

Amniocentesis Being Performed on Human Pregnancy

Amniocentesis Being Performed on Human Pregnancy

Image by TheVisualMD

Amniocentesis

Video by Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates/YouTube

Amniocentesis: Pre-Baby Care (Pregnancy Health Guru)

Video by Healthguru/YouTube

Amniocentesis | Parents

Video by Parents/YouTube

This browser does not support the video element.

Prenatal Diagnostic Testing

If a pregnant woman has an abnormal genetic screening test result, a doctor may suggest a prenatal diagnostic test be done to determine with more certainly whether or not a fetus has a particular disorder. There are two main diagnostic testing procedures, chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis. Both of these tests involve collecting a sample from inside the womb, which is then examined to detect diseases such as Down Syndrome, Edwards Syndrome, neural tube defects, cystic fibrosis, fragile-x, and spinal muscular atrophy. Prenatal diagnostic tests provide valuable information on the health of the fetus and can help alleviate the stress of expectant parents.

Video by TheVisualMD

Genetic Testing During Pregnancy

Video by University of California Television (UCTV)/YouTube

Amniocentesis.flv

Video by PortalMedicoModerno/YouTube

Amnio vs. Genetic Blood Testing

Video by Lee Health/YouTube

Amniocentesis

Video by Washington State Department of Health/YouTube

Amniocentesis

TheVisualMD

Amniocentesis Being Performed on Human Pregnancy

TheVisualMD

3:15

Amniocentesis

Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates/YouTube

2:01

Amniocentesis: Pre-Baby Care (Pregnancy Health Guru)

Healthguru/YouTube

4:57

Amniocentesis | Parents

Parents/YouTube

4:34

Prenatal Diagnostic Testing

TheVisualMD

4:38

Genetic Testing During Pregnancy

University of California Television (UCTV)/YouTube

0:49

Amniocentesis.flv

PortalMedicoModerno/YouTube

1:56

Amnio vs. Genetic Blood Testing

Lee Health/YouTube

3:44

Amniocentesis

Washington State Department of Health/YouTube

Prenatal Ultrasound

Prenatal Ultrasound

Also called: Fetal Ultrasound, Pregnancy Sonography, Pregnancy Sonogram, Obstetric Ultrasonography, Ultrasound - Prenatal

Prenatal ultrasound is an imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to generate images of the fetus. Ultrasounds can be performed at any time; however, they are usually done and are more useful during the first trimester of pregnancy.

Prenatal Ultrasound

Also called: Fetal Ultrasound, Pregnancy Sonography, Pregnancy Sonogram, Obstetric Ultrasonography, Ultrasound - Prenatal

Prenatal ultrasound is an imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to generate images of the fetus. Ultrasounds can be performed at any time; however, they are usually done and are more useful during the first trimester of pregnancy.

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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
Your result is Normal.
* Your baby is growing at a normal rate.
* You have the right amount of amniotic fluid.
* No birth defects were found, though not all birth defects will show up on a sonogram.
Related conditions
1. First Trimester / Dating Ultrasound | Advanced Women's Imaging [accessed on Oct 02, 2018]
2. http://www.advancedwomensimaging.com.au/second-trimester-morphology-ultrasound [accessed on Jan 24, 2019]
3. https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/prenatal-ultrasound.html [accessed on Jan 24, 2019]
4. https://www.webmd.com/baby/ultrasound#1 [accessed on Jan 24, 2019]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (16)

High Risk Pregnancy: Ultrasound Services

Video by Swedish/YouTube

Prenatal Ultrasound

Video by Washington State Department of Health/YouTube

Getting A Pregnancy Ultrasound | Kaiser Permanente

Video by Kaiser Permanente Thrive/YouTube

3 Questions to ask at your ultrasound | Boston Children's Hospital

Video by Boston Children's Hospital/YouTube

Obstetric ultrasonography

Ultrasound image of fetus at 14 weeks (profile)

Image by X.Compagnion (cropped by Hidro)

Ultrasound Scan ND 1231102308 1028500

A well defined hypoechoic lesion is seen in choroid plexsus. Choroid plexsus cyst. It may regress automatically. Medical ultrasound image. Provided as-is. Please feel free to categorise, add description, crop.

Image by Nevit Dilmen (talk)

Head-3D

Ultrasound to detect possible kidney cysts

Drawing of female health worker giving an ultrasound examination to a female patient. An ultrasound imaging device passes harmless sound waves through the body to detect possible kidney cysts.

Image by NIDDK Image Library

Drawing of a fetus with an enlarged kidney visible, as seen in an ultrasound. The enlarged kidney is labeled

A prenatal ultrasound can show enlarged kidneys, ureters, or bladders in babies.

Image by NIDDK Image Library

PAPP-A: PAPP-A Screening Tests

The PAPP-A screen is administered as a first-trimester screen integrated with an hCG test and nuchal translucency (NT) ultrasound. The test screens for chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome and trisomy 18. The image featured here shows an ultrasound image of a fetus suspected to have down syndrome. The areas of concern are highlighted in yellow.

Image by TheVisualMD

Obstetric ultrasonography

Medical ultrasound examination of a pregnant woman.

Image by Scott

Megacystis

Megacystis in fetus : Ultrasound revealing megacystis in a fetus with Down syndrome.

Image by X.Compagnion

Fetal Ultrasound

Ultrasound image (sonogram) of a fetus in the womb.

Image by BruceBlaus/Wikimedia

Fetal Ultrasound Excess?

Video by Wall Street Journal/YouTube

Understanding your fetal ultrasound

Video by UTSWMed/YouTube

Fetal Diagnosis of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) (2 of 11)

Video by The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia/YouTube

2:58

High Risk Pregnancy: Ultrasound Services

Swedish/YouTube

4:00

Prenatal Ultrasound

Washington State Department of Health/YouTube

1:10

Getting A Pregnancy Ultrasound | Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente Thrive/YouTube

1:26

3 Questions to ask at your ultrasound | Boston Children's Hospital

Boston Children's Hospital/YouTube

Obstetric ultrasonography

X.Compagnion (cropped by Hidro)

Ultrasound Scan ND 1231102308 1028500

Nevit Dilmen (talk)

Head-3D

Ultrasound to detect possible kidney cysts

NIDDK Image Library

Drawing of a fetus with an enlarged kidney visible, as seen in an ultrasound. The enlarged kidney is labeled

NIDDK Image Library

PAPP-A: PAPP-A Screening Tests

TheVisualMD

Obstetric ultrasonography

Scott

Megacystis

X.Compagnion

Fetal Ultrasound

BruceBlaus/Wikimedia

2:46

Fetal Ultrasound Excess?

Wall Street Journal/YouTube

4:54

Understanding your fetal ultrasound

UTSWMed/YouTube

7:36

Fetal Diagnosis of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) (2 of 11)

The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia/YouTube

Prevention

Streptococcus pyogenes

Image by CDC

Streptococcus pyogenes

This illustration depicts a photomicrograph of a specimen revealing numbers of chain linked Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria.

Image by CDC

Can Heart Valve Diseases Be Prevented?

You can take steps to help prevent some causes of congenital heart valve disease, although not all are preventable. Talk to your doctor about any vitamins you may need and how to avoid infections such as rubella during pregnancy.

Your doctor may also talk to you about steps you can take to lower your risk for acquired heart valve diseases.

Make heart-healthy lifestyle changes. These include eating a heart-healthy diet, being physically active, aiming for a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and managing stress.
Practice good skin and dental hygiene. This can help protect you from infections that cause endocarditis, a type of heart inflammation that can damage the heart valves.
Take medicines as prescribed to prevent a heart attack, high blood pressure, or heart failure. If you have strep throat, finish all of your prescribed medicine to treat it. This helps prevent rheumatic feverexternal link, which can damage the heart valves.

Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)

Additional Materials (8)

The Importance of Tracking Heart Valve Disease Symptoms

Video by American Heart Association/YouTube

Strep Throat

Video by Best Docs Network/YouTube

How dangerous are strep infections?

Video by Moleculera Labs/YouTube

Be Active — Keep Your Heart Healthy!

Video by NHLBI/YouTube

How Exercise Improves Heart Health – Healthfirst Healthy Living

Video by Healthfirst/YouTube

Heart healthy foods to consume — and what to avoid

Video by Business Insider/YouTube

Overweight and Heart Disease, Show Your Heart Some Love

Video by National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)/YouTube

How to eat a heart-healthy diet

Video by Sunnybrook Hospital/YouTube

4:14

The Importance of Tracking Heart Valve Disease Symptoms

American Heart Association/YouTube

1:14

Strep Throat

Best Docs Network/YouTube

1:54

How dangerous are strep infections?

Moleculera Labs/YouTube

0:53

Be Active — Keep Your Heart Healthy!

NHLBI/YouTube

1:55

How Exercise Improves Heart Health – Healthfirst Healthy Living

Healthfirst/YouTube

1:22

Heart healthy foods to consume — and what to avoid

Business Insider/YouTube

1:05

Overweight and Heart Disease, Show Your Heart Some Love

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)/YouTube

10:59

How to eat a heart-healthy diet

Sunnybrook Hospital/YouTube

Related Syndromes

Diagram of a bicuspid aortic valve

Image by Ify Mordi and Nikolaos Tzemos

Diagram of a bicuspid aortic valve

The basic anatomy of the bicuspid aortic valve

Image by Ify Mordi and Nikolaos Tzemos

What Syndromes or Related Abnormalities Have Been Associated with Aortic Stenosis in a Fetus?

Some fetuses diagnosed with AVS will eventually progress to having hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS). Those with severe AVS can also develop endocardial fibroelastosis, depending on the time of onset during fetal development.

Supravalvular aortic stenosis (SVAS) can either be isolated or can occur as part of Williams syndrome. Isolated SVAS can be caused by mutations in the ELN gene and may be inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. Some individuals with SVAS have associated abnormalities such as peripheral pulmonary artery stenosis. Individuals with Williams syndrome have a deletion of the region of chromosome 7 that normally contains the ELN gene.

Aortic stenosis has also been reported in individuals with other disorders including Alagille syndrome and Shone's complex.

Individuals interested in learning more about the syndromes or abnormalities that may be associated with aortic stenosis in a fetus should speak with a perinatologist, cardiologist and/or genetics professional.

Source: Genetic and Rare Diseases (GARD) Information Center

Additional Materials (3)

Aortic stenosis and aortic regurgitation | Circulatory System and Disease | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Bicuspid Aortic Valve and Congenital Aortic Stenosis (Wilson Lam, MD)

Video by Houston Methodist DeBakey CV Education/YouTube

Aortic Valve Disease, Animation

Video by Alila Medical Media/YouTube

12:07

Aortic stenosis and aortic regurgitation | Circulatory System and Disease | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

15:09

Bicuspid Aortic Valve and Congenital Aortic Stenosis (Wilson Lam, MD)

Houston Methodist DeBakey CV Education/YouTube

3:37

Aortic Valve Disease, Animation

Alila Medical Media/YouTube

Related HealthJournals

Heart Valve Diseases

Heart valves make sure blood flows in then out of your heart. Heart valve disease occurs if one or more of your heart valves don't work well. The three types of heart valve diseases are regurgitation, stenosis, and atresia. Learn more about different types, causes, symptoms, and treatments of heart valve diseases.

Aorta

The aorta is the largest artery in the body. It arises from the left ventricle and eventually descends to the abdominal region. It consists of the ascending aorta, the aortic arch, and the descending aorta before becoming the thoracic aorta and abdominal aorta. Arteries originating from the aorta distribute blood to virtually all tissues of the body.

Heart Anatomy

The heart resides within the pericardial sac and is located in the mediastinal space within the thoracic cavity.

Congenital Heart Defects

Congenital heart defects (CHD) are problems with the structure of the heart, and are the most common type of birth defect. The defects can involve the walls of the heart, the valves of the heart, and the arteries and veins near the heart. Learn more about the symptoms, causes, treatments, and how to manage congenital heart defects.

Critical Congenital Heart Disease

Critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) is a term that refers to a group of serious heart defects that are present from birth. About 1 in every 4 babies born with a heart defect has a critical congenital heart defect (also known as critical congenital heart disease or CCHD). Babies with CCHD usually require surgery soon after birth. Learn more about CCHD.

Holes in the Heart

Holes in the heart, or septal defects, are simple congenital heart defects. A septal defect is a hole in the septum, which is the muscle wall that separates the heart's left and right chambers. Common defects include atrial septal defect, ventricular septal defect, and atrioventricular canal defect. Learn more about the different types of septal defects.

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Aortic Stenosis

Aortic valve stenosis (AVS) is a condition characterized by narrowing of the heart's aortic valve opening. This narrowing prevents the valve from opening fully, which obstructs blood flow from the heart into the aorta, and onward to the rest of the body. Learn what tests are available to diagnose this condition and what steps you can take to prevent it.

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