Aortic Valve Stenosis

Aortic stenosis is a prevalent cardiovascular condition, particularly among older people. It's a narrowing of the aortic valve, the central passageway that directs blood from the heart to the body.

The aorta is the body’s central artery that transports blood from the heart to the rest of the body. If its valve gets blocked or becomes narrow, it may not be able to fully open and direct proper blood flow from the heart to the body. Aortic stenosis can be mild, moderate, or severe and may occur in children or adults.

At Corrielus Cardiology, we're committed to providing top-quality, patient-centered care for aortic valve stenosis, utilizing an integrative approach to promote heart health and overall wellness.

Aortic stenosis typically develops over time due to progressive wear and tear on the aortic valve. Common causes include aging, abnormal valve structure, valve infection, and rheumatic heart disease. 

The condition can be asymptomatic initially, but as the valve becomes more narrowed, symptoms may occur, including:

• Chest pain
• Leg swelling
• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath with exertion
• Passing out (syncope)

While aortic stenosis can't always be prevented due to factors like age and congenital heart defects, maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle can help reduce your risk. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco and illicit drugs, and controlling conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.

At Corrielus Cardiology, we use advanced cardiovascular imaging techniques to diagnose aortic stenosis, including: 

• Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE)
• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Exercise stress testing
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Cardiac Catheterization
• Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)
• CT scan

These images allow us to see what is happening inside your heart and determine if you need treatment. 

Our team at Corrielus Cardiology tailors treatment plans based on the severity of your condition. Conservative measures can involve methods that control blood pressure and improve valve function. In severe or progressed cases, valve replacement may be required. 

We also emphasize the importance of patient education on blood pressure management and heart-healthy lifestyle. Regular checkups can help detect aortic valve stenosis earlier and allow for less invasive treatment. 

Treatment options for aortic stenosis can include:

• Aortic valve replacement surgery: This is a standard treatment for severe aortic stenosis where the diseased valve is surgically replaced with a new one, improving the heart's blood flow
• Balloon valvuloplasty: The procedure involves the use of a catheter with a balloon on the tip, which is inflated to expand the narrowed valve, thereby improving blood flow
• Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR): TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure that involves the replacement of a narrowed aortic valve through a catheter, providing an alternative to open-heart surgery and improving symptoms and mortality for inoperable patients 

Corrielus Cardiology is proud to be Philadelphia’s trusted provider of integrative cardiovascular care and complete wellness. Our expert team, led by Dr. Corrielus, is exceptionally qualified to diagnose and manage aortic stenosis, offering personalized treatment plans to ensure the most effective outcome for every patient.

If you want to learn more about aortic valve stenosis or how to prevent it, we invite you to schedule a consultation today. We believe in providing comprehensive, empathetic care for our patients, helping you navigate your treatment options and make informed decisions about your health.

Remember, early detection and proficient treatment of aortic stenosis are crucial. Call Corrielus Cardiology at 215-383-5900 or book an appointment online to schedule your cardiology consultation.