According to the American Heart Association, approximately five million Americans are diagnosed with valvular heart disease each year. Valvular heart disease involves damage or a defect in one of the four heart valves – the valves become too narrow and hardened to open fully (stenosis), or are unable to close completely (regurgitation or "leaking").
Valvular problems can begin at birth or are caused by age-related changes, infections, heart attacks, or heart disease or damage. Some valve problems are minor and do not need treatment. Others, however, may eventually require medical procedures or surgery to repair or replace the heart valve.
If you've been diagnosed with valvular heart disease, the Heart Team at SLU Hospital will work with you to assess the extent of the defect and review treatment options that can protect the heart from further damage, through a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, valve repair or valve replacement. Experts in medical, surgical, and catheter-based treatments for valvular heart disease are dedicated to prescribing the most appropriate option for each individual patient.
