Echocardiographic evaluation of calcific aortic stenosis in the older adult.

Aortic stenosis is the most predominant valvular pathology occurring in older adults with an expected increase over time. Multiple comorbidities and highly variable clinical presentations which characterize the aging population necessitate the use of echocardiography in the assessment of valvular structure and real time hemodynamic evaluation. This article reviews the pathophysiology and clinical presentation of aortic stenosis in this unique population and the critical role of various echocardiographic modalities. The value of real time three-dimensional real time echocardiography in the assessment and management of aortic stenosis in older adults is emphasized.