Advanced
Technical
IVT
aortic stiffness index
A measure of aortic wall elasticity calculated from the relationship between pressure change and relative diameter change.
Full Definition
The aortic stiffness index quantifies the elastic properties of the aortic wall by measuring the ratio of natural logarithm of systolic-to-diastolic pressure ratio to the relative change in aortic diameter. This parameter is increasingly recognized as an important predictor of cardiovascular outcomes and helps guide timing of aortic interventions, particularly in patients with aortic root dilatation or connective tissue disorders.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with compliance; stiffness and compliance are inversely related.
In Context
- "The elevated aortic stiffness index suggested accelerated aortic wall degeneration despite normal dimensions." — Imaging report
- "Serial monitoring of aortic stiffness index helps predict aneurysm growth rates in Marfan patients." — Research protocol
Also known as
aortic elasticity index
Contrasted with
aortic compliance
Don't confuse with
aortic compliance
aortic impedance