215 Reduced aortic elasticity and dilatation are associated with aortic regurgitation and left ventricular dysfunction after the arterial switch operation

(2.2*10 -3 mmHg -1 ± 1.8 vs. 4.9*10 -3 mmHg -1 ± 2.9, P < 0.01). Minor degrees of aortic regurgitation (AR) were present in 6 patients (AR fraction 5% ± 3 vs. 1% ± 1, P < 0.001). In addition, LV ejection fraction (LV EF) was decreased in ASO patients (51% ± 6 vs. 58% ± 5, P = 0.003) and LV dimensions were enlarged with LV enddiastolic volume 112 mL/m2 ± 13 vs. 95 mL/m2 ± 16 (P = 0.007) and LV end-systolic volume 54 mL/m 2 ± 11 vs. 39 mL/m 2 ± 7 (P < 0.001). AR fraction was correlated with increased PWV in the aortic arch (r = 0.39, P = 0.03), reduced root distensibility (r = 0.45, P = 0.01) and aortic root dilatation (r 0.32–0.66, P < 0.01 for all levels). Degree of AR predicted decreased LV EF (r = 0.41, P = 0.026) and was correlated with increased LV dimensions (r = 0.48, P = 0.008; r = 0.67, P < 0.001; respectively). Conclusion Aortic root dilatation and reduced elasticity of the proximal aorta were frequently present in ASO patients. Dilatation of the aortic root and reduced proximal aortic wall elasticity were associated with degree of AR, while AR was correlated with LV systolic dysfunction and increased LV dimensions after ASO.