Review Articles
Bicuspid Aortic Valve and Associated Aortopathy: Surgical Considerations
Authors:
Brian A. Bruckner ,
Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, Houston, Texas, US
About Brian A.
M.D.
Michael J. Reardon
Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, Houston, Texas, US
About Michael J.
M.D.
Abstract
Introduction
The human aortic valve is normally a tricuspid structure but may occur as bicuspid or quadricuspid structures (Figure 1). Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is one of the most common congenital heart anomalies and the most common congenital anomaly in adults, occurring in 0.5-2% of the population based on echocardiography and autopsy series.1, 2 It is an inherited defect that appears to occur in an autosomal dominant pattern. BAV is the cause of aortic stenosis in 70-85% of pediatric cases3 and about 50% of adult cases.4 Indications for aortic valve replacement (AVR) in BAVs is the same as rheumatic or senile calcific degeneration aortic valves. BAVs are different, however, in that the tissue pathology is not limited to the valves’ leaflets but extends from the left ventricular outflow tract to the ascending thoracic aorta. BAVs are associated with several congenital anomalies, infective endocarditis, and acute thoracic aortic emergencies such as aneurysm and dissection. These associations lead to surgical considerations different from other aortic valve pathologies.
How to Cite:
1. Bruckner BA, Reardon MJ. Bicuspid Aortic Valve and Associated Aortopathy: Surgical Considerations. Methodist DeBakey Cardiovascular Journal. 2010;6(1):29-32. DOI: http://doi.org/10.14797/mdcvj.191
Published on
01 Jan 2010.
Peer Reviewed
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