Essential Heart Sounds

Systolic Murmur - Aortic Stenosis

In this lesson we cover a diamond shaped systolic murmur associated with aortic stenosis. When you listen to the recording, notice that the first and second heart sounds are normal. The systolic murmur starts shortly after the first heart sound and ends before the second heart sound. This murmur is mid to high-pitched. Use the 'Visual' tab to play a video that presents a markedly thickened left ventricle. The murmur is caused by turbulent flow across the stenotic aortic valve. The aortic valve leaflets are thickened and immobile.

Listen

patient torso with stethoscope chestpiece

The patient's position should be sitting.

Visualize

Observe

The animation shows a markedly thickened left ventricle. The aortic valve leaflets are thickened and immobile. The murmur is caused by turbulent flow across the stenotic aortic valve.

Authors and Reviewers

Authored by Thomas O Brien
. Medically reviewed by Dr. Jonathan Keroes, MD
Last Update: 11/8/2021