New ESC/EACTS Guidelines Enhance Management of Valvular Heart Disease

The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS) have released updated guidelines aimed at improving the diagnosis and treatment of valvular heart disease (VHD). Announced during the ESC Congress 2025, these guidelines incorporate the latest evidence from extensive research and large randomized controlled trials to promote the wider use of less invasive and innovative treatment options.

The revised recommendations were developed by an international panel led by Professor Fabien Praz, an interventional cardiologist at Bern University Hospital, and Professor Michael Borger, Director of Cardiac Surgery at the University of Leipzig, Germany. The guidelines emphasize the importance of shared decision-making and multidisciplinary Heart Teams, advocating that complex cases and procedures be managed at high-volume centers equipped with specialized expertise.

A key focus of the update is addressing the disparities in treatment across Europe. Professor Borger highlighted the variation in clinical practice, noting that patients with the same medical needs often receive differing treatments depending on their location. The new guidelines aim to standardize care and ensure that all patients have access to optimal treatment strategies.

Valvular heart disease affects millions worldwide, with aortic stenosis being the most common condition treated in developed countries. It is estimated to impact around 9 million people globally, while mitral regurgitation, the most prevalent type, affects approximately 24 million. The prevalence increases with age, predominantly affecting elderly patients with multiple comorbidities.

The guidelines provide detailed, practical recommendations to assist healthcare providers in making informed clinical decisions. They include updated insights on sex-specific considerations, accurate assessment of disease mechanisms, diagnostic protocols for complex cases, and the growing role of advanced imaging techniques such as 3D echocardiography, cardiac CT, and cardiac MRI.

Professor Praz emphasized that the rapid advancements in medical research have enhanced understanding and treatment of VHD, leading to better patient outcomes. He expressed hope that following these guidelines across Europe and beyond will improve care quality and consistency.

In summary, the 2025 ESC/EACTS guidelines serve as an essential resource for clinicians managing valvular heart disease. They promote timely interventions, equitable treatment access, and the integration of cutting-edge imaging technology, ultimately aiming for improved longevity and quality of life for patients.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-guideline-valvular-heart-disease.html