Abstract des Autors

In this study we proposed the use of M-mode echocardiography, for the evaluation of ascending aorta distensibility in 14 athletes with mean age of 49.9+/-4.8 SD (group A) and 10 healthy volunteers with mean age of 20.8+/-0.78 SD (group B). The static elastic properties of ascending aorta were estimated from the non-invasively measured change in diameter between diastole and systole, and pulse pressure obtained by the auscultatory method. For each subject, strain, distensibility, beta-stiffness index and pressure strain elastic modulus were calculated. The mean values of arterial diameters were significantly higher in group A (p<0.001) but the pulsatile change was the same into the two groups. Diastolic diameter was positively and significantly correlated with age (r=0.60, p<0.05). Compared with subjects of group B the athletes showed a not significantly moderate reduction of strain and distensibility, and a not significant slight increase of beta-stiffness index and pressure-strain elastic modulus. In conclusion, our experience indicates that the usual practice of training reduces the negative effects of age on the aortic distensibility. Verf.-Referat