Aortic Regurgitation with Ejection Systolic Mumur

The stethoscope is positioned towards the left sternoclavicular junction. Note in this recording the ejection systolic murmur early in systole. The aortic regurgitant murmur is less prominent in this position. Patients with aortic valvular disease may have concomitant aortic stenosis and aortic regurgitation, or may have isolated aortic regurgitation. This patient had isolated aortic regurgitation.

The incompetent valve allows blood to re-enter the left ventricle, which results in an increased volume of blood being ejected during the subsequent beat. The increased volume of blood ejected during systole creates an audible ejection systolic murmur.

Contributed by Dr. Darryl A Smith FCP (SA) Cardiology