Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
aortic regurgitation
Backward flow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole due to incompetent aortic valve.
Full Definition
Aortic regurgitation (AR) occurs when the aortic valve fails to close properly during diastole, allowing blood to flow retrograde from the aorta into the left ventricle. In the context of aortic surgery, AR may result from aortic root dilatation, bicuspid valve disease, endocarditis, or trauma. Severity is graded as mild, moderate, or severe based on echocardiographic parameters including regurgitant fraction, effective regurgitant orifice area, and left ventricular dimensions. Severe AR may require surgical intervention.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as AR; specify severity grade in documentation.
In Context
- "Severe aortic regurgitation secondary to bicuspid valve required aortic valve replacement." — Pre-operative assessment
- "Post-operative echocardiogram showed resolution of aortic regurgitation after valve-sparing root replacement." — Follow-up report
Also known as
AR
aortic insufficiency
Contrasted with
aortic stenosis
Don't confuse with
mitral regurgitation
aortic stenosis