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Aortic Valve Stenosis, also be known as Aortic Stenosis (AS), is when the aortic valve doesn’t open completely.

This valve controls the blood flowing from the left ventricle to the aorta.

Can often be seen with as a cardiac defect from birth.

Is also seen in those with calcification or degeneration of the valve.

There are 4 main valves in the Heart

1.)  Tricuspid Valve
2.)  Pulmonary Valve
3.)  Mitral Valve
4.)  Aortic Valve

Calcification is similar to what occurs with Atherosclerotic vascular disease

It is seen in almost 2% of those over 65
3% of those over 75
5% of those over 85

Symptoms:

• Heart murmur
• Dizziness
• Syncope
• Chest pain
• Angina
• Chest discomfort
• Congestive Heart Failure

Diagnosis

• Echocardiography/Doppler is essential to confirm the diagnosis
• Heart Catheterization – to examine pressure
• ECG  may be beneficial.

Treatment

Surgery to replace the valve

Ross procedure

• To remove own pulmonary valve and placing it where the stenotic aortic valve is.
• A new valve for the pulmonary valve.

Anticoagulation may be necessary

Balloon valvuloplasty in children or infants to stretch the valve