Aortic Valve Stenosis

Your heart has four valves that regulate the directional flow of blood through your heart. Properly working valves are instrumental for the pumping mechanism of the heart. The Aortic valve ensures the one-way flow of oxygen rich blood from the left ventricle to the aorta. The aorta is the largest artery in the human body supplying oxygen rich blood to the entire circulatory system.

Aortic stenosis is a condition of the aortic valve which occurs when the valve narrows and is unable to open completely. Aortic stenosis restricts the flow of blood from the left ventricle into the aorta. The obstruction caused by aortic valve stenosis causes the left ventricle to work harder to pump blood through your body. Because the left ventricle has to pump with more force the muscle tends to enlarge and become hard. Over time, the thickening and enlarging of the ventricular muscle weakens the heart and cause congestive heart failure. Aortic stenosis is also linked to cardiac arrhythmias and heart attack, and can increase your risk of endocarditis, an infection of the endocardium (the inner lining of the heart).

Dr. Thorne, Dr. Schorlemmer, and Dr. Affleck specialize in cardiac valve repair and replacement at Western Cardiovascular Associates. Learn about his innovative aortic valve replacement surgery and their aortic valve repair procedures. As the recipient of the prestigious Pediatric Cardiac Surgery Fellowship from Boston Children's Hospital, Dr. Thorne not only treats adults but is a highly qualified pediatric surgeon. Whether you live in Salt Lake City, Ogden, or Utah Valley, or anywhere in the country, contact Western Cardiovascular Associates or call us at 801-743-4750 today.