Aortic valve disease

Aortic valve disease encompasses aortic stenosis, aortic regurgitation, and congenital malformations. Aortic valve stenosis is a common problem among the elderly, and valve replacement is still the only treatment option for severe symptomatic disease. Advances in our understanding of the pathophysiology of calcific aortic valve disease support the presence of an active disease process. Congenital bicuspid aortic valves account for half of all valve replacements and are associated with aortic dilatation. Echocardiography remains an important diagnostic tool in management of aortic valve disease and is recommended in all patients with suspected disease.