Aortic Valve Stenosis
Aortic Valve Stenosis is a serious condition that causes the aortic valve to become too tight and barely open. The heart is forced to work very hard to push fresh blood through the narrow opening.
At onset of this disease, the heart can adapt by thickening the cardiac muscle to increase strength. Unfortunately, the heart will eventually tire out and it creates life-threatening conditioning.
If a patient is diagnosed with moderate-to-severe aortic valve stenosis, no matter how elderly or frail, the patient must undergo replacement surgery to avoid death in a matter of months. Aortic valve stenosis is a deadly disease that requires immediate attention.
Aortic Valve Insufficiency
An Insufficiency means that the aortic valve leaks when it is closed. The blood that is supposed to flow out the heart, end up flowing backwards. In order to guarantee an adequate flow of blood, the heart must again work very hard.
With the help of medical therapy, most patients with aortic valve insufficiency can live without symptoms for a period of time. When the heart begins to wear out, patients will experience symptoms of congestive heart failure.
Patients that have been diagnosed with Aortic Valve Insufficiency must have regular, careful follow up appointments with a cardiologist. This will ensure that surgical therapy can be offered before it is too late.
Minimally Invasive Aortic Valve Replacement or Repair
Without surgery, the majority of patients will die within three years of symptom onset. Dr. Ciuffo performs a minimally invasive aortic valve replacement that is significantly less traumatic to patients. Most patients are able to return to their lives two or three days after surgery. Our methods give patients a much better chance of living for many more years.
Request an appointment with Dr. Ciuffo to discuss your condition and your needs online or call us at (330) 363-1341.
