Aortic bicuspid valve is a congenital anomaly of the aortic valveThe aortic valve is located between the left ventricule and the aorta. It is one of the four valves ot the heart. >>, present from birth due to a defect in heart formation during pregnancy.
The aortic valveThe aortic valve is located between the left ventricule and the aorta. It is one of the four valves ot the heart. >>, situated between the left ventricle and the aorta, allows bloodBlood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. White blood cells make up our immune defense system. Platelets contribute to blood to exit the heart.
Present in 2% of the population
Normally, the aortic valveThe aortic valve is located between the left ventricule and the aorta. It is one of the four valves ot the heart. >> is tricuspid, consisting of three leaflets, but in the case of aortic bicuspid valve, the valve only has two leaflets.
This anomaly is quite common and affects approximately 2% of the population, with a higher prevalence in males.
Usually asymptomatic
Typically, it remains asymptomatic unless both leaflets of the valve do not function normally, which can lead to symptoms.
Incidentally discovered
The diagnosis of aortic bicuspid valve is often incidentally discovered during an echocardiographic examination.
"Heart murmur"
During a physical examination, a doctor may sometimes detect a “heart murmur.” This is a sound heard during cardiac auscultation that can be indicative of this malformation.
Echocardiography: The Preferred Diagnostic Tool
The preferred method for diagnosing aortic bicuspid valve is echocardiography. This imaging technique allows for the visualization of the valve leaflets and the assessment of any associated aortic stenosis or insufficiency, as well as its impact on the heart muscle.
Valve Insufficiency
Aortic bicuspid valve can lead to aortic valveThe aortic valve is located between the left ventricule and the aorta. It is one of the four valves ot the heart. >> insufficiency, allowing bloodBlood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. White blood cells make up our immune defense system. Platelets contribute to blood reflux from the aorta to the left ventricle, which can also be detected during echocardiographic examination.
Increased Susceptibility to Premature Aging
Due to its structural differences from a normal aortic valveThe aortic valve is located between the left ventricule and the aorta. It is one of the four valves ot the heart. >>, the bicuspid valve is more prone to premature wear and aging. This susceptibility may be attributed to chronic inflammation caused by the physical pressure exerted on the two leaflets instead of the typical three.
Valve Stenosis
Over time, chronic inflammation can lead to calcium deposits that make the valve stiffer. This stiffness, along with calcium deposits, reduces the valve’s opening, qualifying it as “stenotic.”
Aortic regurgitation, associated with this “stenotic” valve, is also possible, as chronic inflammation can alter the shape of the leaflets and cause valve leakage.
Increased Cardiac Workload
In both cases, the heart must work harder to pump blood to the organs, potentially resulting in symptoms such as exertional dyspnea, chest pain, dizziness, or loss of consciousness.
Some patients may require heart surgery
When stenosis or aortic insufficiency becomes too significant, surgery to repair or replace the valve may be considered by the doctor.
Aortic dilation
Aortic bicuspid valve is often associated with dilation of the aorta, the main vessel leaving the heart. This dilation can occur even in the absence of aortic stenosis or insufficiency.
When severe, aortic dilation may require surgery to prevent vessel rupture. Patients with aortic bicuspid valve should therefore monitor their bloodBlood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. White blood cells make up our immune defense system. Platelets contribute to blood pressure and avoid weightlifting exercises, as hypertension and intensive weightlifting can accelerate aortic dilation.
Valve susceptible to infection
Furthermore, aortic bicuspid valve makes the valve more susceptible to infection. Such an infection, called “bacterial endocarditis,” is rare but difficult to treat. It can occur in the presence of bacteria circulating in the bloodBlood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. White blood cells make up our immune defense system. Platelets contribute to blood.
Good oral hygiene
Good oral hygiene is essential as the bacteria responsible for infections often come from the mouth. Therefore, impeccable dental hygiene and regular visits to the dentist are essential.
It is no longer necessary to take antibiotics before a dental visit, as was previously suggested.
Follow-up by echocardiography
Regular follow-up with echocardiograms is essential for individuals living with aortic bicuspid valve.
This examination helps monitor the valve’s proper functioning and measure the size of the aorta. It is also necessary to detect and monitor the development of possible aortic stenosis or regurgitation.
Pregnancy precautions
Before any pregnancy, it is imperative to undergo a comprehensive assessment. It is essential to ensure that there is no severe aortic stenosis or insufficiency before conceiving a child.
Limitations
There are generally no specific restrictions for individuals with aortic bicuspid valve.
However, complications arising from the progression of this valvular anomaly, such as ascending aortic dilation, aortic stenosis, or aortic insufficiency, may require certain modifications to physical activities.
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