Differentiation of Aortic-Valve Stenosis from Subaortic Muscular Stenosis by Means of Arterial-Sound Recordings

Abstract

THE clinical methods of history and physical examination and laboratory findings such as x-ray study and electrocardiography often prove inadequate for the differentiation of stenosis of the aortic valve from subaortic muscular stenosis. For example, in both conditions the blood pressures may be within normal limits, the murmurs similar, and the heart shadows small. Before the diagnosis is sufficiently secure to warrant surgical intervention, further evidence such as that obtained by cardiac catheterization and angiocardiography is commonly required. Although these are usually benign procedures, they demand special training and equipment, and carry a minimal but definite risk.Intra-arterial recordings have . . .