Factors affecting the structure and elasticity of thoracic aorta

Abstract

Background The purpose of the study was to evaluate by means of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) the factors affecting the structure and elasticity of the thoracic aorta.
Material and methods The study population consisted of 102 patients (26 women) aged 57 ± 10 years. Information of risk factors of atherosclerosis was obtained by interview. All patients underwent TEE for other reasons, examination was completed by imaging of the thoracic aorta.
Results Aortic diameter, the intima-media thickness and distensibility indices were measured. Diameter and thickness of thoracic aorta were positively correlated with age (r = 0.22, p = 0.03; r = 0.27 p = 0.005 respectively). Young’s modulus and B modulus were also related to age (r = 0.42, p < 0.0001; r = 0.37, p = 0.0002 respectively). Hypertensive subjects had higher wall thickness (0.10 ± 0.03 vs. 0.13 ± 0.04, p < 0.05). Advanced atherosclerosis of the aorta was related to higher stiffness of the aorta.
Conclusion Aortic elasticity is related mostly to age and atherosclerosis.