Aortic Valve Area by Planimetry

How to get an AVA by Planimetry.

1. Obtain a short axis view of the aortic valve and either trace the circumference or measure the length of one side. The optimal view is the MEAVSAX view in a zoomed mode. The endothelial boarder of the aortic valve leaflets should be sharp. Scarring and calcifications can cause a blurry leaflet boarder which can lead to errors. If the boarders of the leaflets are visible then the aortic valve area can be calculated utilizing the tracing function on the echocardiographic machine. Alternatively, one side of the aortic valve can be measured and the aortic valve area can be calculated from the area of a equilateral triangle. The preferred method is to trace the aortic valve area rather than calculate it.