Aortic Valve Disease

Overview

The aorta is the main artery carrying blood out of the heart. A normal aortic valve opens during the contraction of the heart and closes during the relaxation period. This ensures that blood flows efficiently throughout the body and does not back into the heart. However, if the valve leaks when it should be closed (aortic regurgitation), or if the valve becomes narrowed and obstructed (aortic stenosis), the amount of blood that can be pumped from the heart to the body is compromised and can lead to enlargement of the heart. Some patients may remain asymptomatic, while others may experience a wide range of symptoms.

Hoag’s Top Rated Valvular Heart Disease Program

Nancy & Bill Thompson Heart Valve Center is one of a handful of clinics nationwide dedicated to state-of-the-art screening, diagnosis, and treatment of valvular heart disease. Learn more about Hoag’s top rated valvular heart disease program:

• Early Detection Program​
• Experience and Outcomes​
• Physician Expertise
• Innovative Technology & Treatment
• State-of-the-Art Patient-Centered Care​
• Consultation and Screening Appointment​