Question

Which of the following is an expected E/A ratio in a patient with severe acute aortic regurgitation? 1. 0.6 2. 1.0 3. 1.4 4. 2.2

Answer 1

In severe acute aortic regurgitation, the E/A ratio is generally elevated due to the high-pressure gradient created by the regurgitant flow, therefore an E/A ratio of 2.2 can be expected.

Step-by-step explanation:

In patients with severe acute aortic regurgitation, the expected E/A (early diastolic to atrial contraction transmitral) flow velocity ratio is commonly elevated and can exceed 2. This is due to a rapid early diastolic flow (the E wave) that occurs because of the higher pressure difference created by the leaking aortic valve. The E/A ratio provides insight into the diastolic function of the heart. In severe acute aortic regurgitation, the heart may not have enough time to adjust to the volume overload, which could result in an increased E wave. Correspondingly, an E/A ratio of 2.2 might be seen, which emphasizes the heightened rate of early diastolic filling due to regurgitation.