What Is a Bicuspid Aortic Valve?
The aortic valve is on the left side of the heart. It separates the left ventricle and the entrance to the aorta, the artery that carries blood to the body.
Valves are like doors that open and close. They open to allow blood into the next chamber of the heart or into one of the arteries, and then they shut to keep blood from flowing backwards.
The aortic valve normally has three cusps (leaflets). A bicuspid aortic valve has only two cusps.
A bicuspid aortic valve usually functions normally during early life and middle age. But in some cases, young adults will have symptoms due to a thickening of the bicuspid aortic valve; this is called
aortic stenosis. Leaking of the aortic valve can also occur; this condition is known as
aortic valve regurgitation.
Up to 2 percent of the population is born with a bicuspid aortic valve. It is the most common congenital heart defect seen in the adult population. A bicuspid valve by itself does not cause symptoms.
Diagnosing a Bicuspid Aortic Valve
Doctors diagnose a bicuspid aortic valve based on the patient's symptoms (if any), a physical exam, and certain tests and procedures. Tests that are used to make a diagnosis can include:
The progression of a bicuspid aortic valve varies widely. Severe
aortic stenosis may be present at birth due to incomplete opening of the valve leaflets. Aortic stenosis can also develop during childhood, during adulthood (peaking around the fourth decade of life), or it may never develop at all.
Aortic valve regurgitation is less common during early childhood but can also develop over time.
Treating a Bicuspid Aortic Valve
Because of the wide variability in progression, the healthcare provider will usually recommend regular checkups and certain tests (electrocardiograms, echocardiograms, and stress tests) to monitor any progression of a bicuspid aortic valve. No other treatment is necessary for a bicuspid aortic valve unless symptoms occur.
If you have a bicuspid aortic valve, it is a good idea to ask your healthcare provider whether you need to limit your physical activity. Depending on your individual situation, limiting your activity levels may or may not be necessary. Also, preventive antibiotics should be used for any surgeries, including dental procedures.
