The aortic valve is the outlet valve from the left ventricle and usually requires repair or replacement when it either does not open completely or does not close properly and therefore blood leaks back into the left ventricle. Aortic stenosis is the narrowing, usually by a build-up of calcium, of the aortic valve causing the heart to work harder by pumping blood through a smaller opening. As the heart works harder to pump blood, it eventually wears out and causes heart failure.

Aortic Valve Disease Symptoms

The symptoms most often associated with aortic valve disease are shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, arrhythmias/palpitations and syncope usually associated with exertion.

Aortic Valve Disease Treatment

Dr. Bell-Thomson’s preference is to repair the valve when possible. However, it most often requires a replacement and for this, again the two most common prostheses used are the pericardial tissue valve manufactured by Edwards Life sciences and the St. Jude Medical mechanical heart valve. There are some indications where a human aortic valve or homograft is preferred and Dr. Bell-Thomson is always willing to discuss this possibility with you.