Early Surgery for Aortic Stenosis Could Prevent Symptoms and Hospital Visits, Study Finds

Early Surgery for Aortic Stenosis Could Prevent Symptoms and Hospital Visits, Study Finds

(IN BRIEF) A new study from the University of Edinburgh and the University of East Anglia suggests that earlier surgical intervention for severe aortic stenosis can improve elderly patients’ quality of life and reduce hospitalizations. The EVOLVED study, involving 224 participants with severe aortic stenosis but mild symptoms, showed that early surgery resulted in fewer symptoms and lower rates of unplanned hospital visits compared to standard monitoring. Researchers propose updating treatment guidelines to recommend earlier intervention, potentially easing the burden on healthcare systems and enhancing patient outcomes.

(PRESS RELEASE) NORWICH, 30-Oct-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — A new study suggests that early surgical intervention for elderly patients with severe aortic stenosis, a common heart valve condition, could significantly enhance their quality of life by preventing symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, and fainting. Traditionally, aortic valve replacement has been delayed until symptoms are severe; however, findings from the EVOLVED study conducted by researchers at the University of Edinburgh and the University of East Anglia indicate that early surgery could reduce the frequency of unplanned hospital visits, helping to ease the strain on healthcare systems.

The study, conducted across 24 cardiac centers in the UK and Australia, followed 224 participants averaging 73 years old with severe aortic stenosis and mild symptoms. Participants were divided into two groups: one received early surgery, while the other was monitored. After one year, only 20% of the early intervention group reported symptoms compared to 38% in the monitored group, and unplanned hospitalizations were also significantly lower in the early intervention group (6% vs. 17%).

Researchers believe these results suggest a potential shift in treatment guidelines, advocating for earlier aortic valve replacement to prevent severe symptoms and hospital admissions. Dr. Neil Craig from the University of Edinburgh emphasized that timely intervention could lead to fewer symptoms and hospitalizations, while Professor Vassilios Vassiliou from the University of East Anglia noted that the study supports updating treatment plans to intervene before symptoms worsen, a change likely to benefit patients. The study was published in JAMA and funded by the Sir Jules Thorne Charitable Trust.

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SOURCE: University of East Anglia

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