What is bicuspid aortic valve?
Dr. Michael Miyamoto: The aortic valve is the valve through which the blood travels from the left ventricle or the main pumping chamber of the heart into the aorta or the main vessel of the heart, and then to the rest of the body. The aortic valve has 3 leaflets; normally it is a tri-leaflet structure. A bicuspid valve, for whatever reason, there are only two leaflets. Most commonly, this is congenital in origin, that is, a person is born with this. Sometimes, because of prosthesis, the leaflets can become scarred and two leaflets may become confused, therefore resulting in a functional bicuspid valve. The published answers represent the opinions and perspectives of the doctors and pharmacists of MedicineNet.com and are for educational purposes only. They should not be used to replace or substitute for timely consultation with your doctor. Accuracy of information cannot be guaranteed. Please remember, information can be subject to interpretation and can become obsolete. For more inform
