Hemodynamics in bicuspid aortic valve relatives with trileaflet aortic valves compared to normal controls using 4D flow MRI

Background Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is known as the most common congenital anomaly and its complications (ascending aortic aneurysm, dissection) can lead to noticeable morbidity and mortality. There is increasing evidence that, in addition to its genetic background, changes in aortic hemodynamics may play an important role in the development of aortopathy in these patients. Studies have shown that BAV can substantially alter aortic hemodynamics, but it is unclear if the genetic basis can influence aortic properties and 3D blood flow in BAV relatives with normal tricuspid valves. In this study, we evaluated flow dynamics, aorta diameter and geometry in BAV relatives compared to normal volunteers using 4D flow MRI.