Multiparametric Strategy to Predict Early Disease Decompensation in Asymptomatic Severe Aortic Regurgitation.

Background: Use of the current echocardiography-based indications for aortic regurgitation (AR) surgery might result in late valve replacement at the stage of irreversible myocardial damage. Therefore, we aimed to identify simple models combining multiple echocardiography or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-derived indices and natriuretic peptides (BNP [brain natriuretic peptide] or NT-proBNP [N-terminnal pro-B type natriuretic peptide]) to predict early disease decompensation in asymptomatic severe AR.

Methods: This prospective and multicenter study included asymptomatic patients with severe AR, preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (>50%), and sinus rhythm.