AHI Formula:
From: | To: |
The Aortic Height Index (AHI) is a measurement that normalizes aortic diameter to patient height. It provides a more accurate assessment of aortic size by accounting for body size variations, making it particularly useful for evaluating aortic dilation and aneurysm risk.
The calculator uses the AHI formula:
Where:
Explanation: The AHI calculation normalizes aortic size to body height, providing a more personalized assessment of aortic dimensions compared to absolute diameter measurements alone.
Details: AHI is crucial for accurate assessment of aortic size, especially in patients with Marfan syndrome, other connective tissue disorders, or those being evaluated for aortic aneurysm. It helps in risk stratification and surgical decision-making.
Tips: Enter aortic diameter in centimeters and height in meters. Ensure measurements are accurate for reliable results. Aortic diameter should be measured at the sinuses of Valsalva for standard assessment.
Q1: What is the normal range for AHI?
A: Normal AHI values typically range from 1.5 to 2.5 cm/m, but interpretation should consider clinical context and specific patient populations.
Q2: Why normalize aortic diameter to height?
A: Height normalization accounts for body size variations, making aortic size assessment more accurate across different patient populations and reducing false positives in taller individuals.
Q3: When is AHI particularly useful?
A: AHI is especially valuable in pediatric populations, tall individuals, and patients with connective tissue disorders where absolute aortic diameter may be misleading.
Q4: How does AHI compare to BSA-indexed measurements?
A: Both methods normalize aortic size, but AHI using height alone is simpler and may be more practical in clinical settings while maintaining good accuracy.
Q5: What AHI values indicate concern?
A: AHI values above 2.5-3.0 cm/m generally indicate aortic dilation and warrant closer monitoring, though specific thresholds may vary by clinical guidelines.