Aortic Valve Program

How we treat aortic valve conditions 

We stay up to date on the latest treatments and innovations for aortic valve replacement management and repair. From initial diagnosis to aortic valve replacement aftercare, our highly experienced specialists are here to help every step of the way. 

Conditions we treat 

The AHN Aortic Valve Program treats the following conditions:

• Aortic insufficiency: This happens when the aortic valve doesn’t close correctly, which allows blood to leak backward.
• Aortic stenosis: The most common type of valve condition, aortic stenosis is a serious problem that restricts blood flow to the aorta due to a narrowing in the opening of the aortic valve.
• Bicuspid aortic valve disease: An aortic valve that consists of only two flaps instead of its usual three. If further complications arise — such as heart failure, aortic stenosis, or aortic regurgitation — the condition is called bicuspid aortic valve disease and requires bicuspid aortic valve management. 
• Aortic valve endocarditis: This happens when the heart’s inner lining becomes inflamed. This is a serious condition typically caused by an infection within the body.
• Aortic aneurysm or dissection: The aorta is the main artery of the body which supplies oxygen-rich blood to the circulatory system. The blood leaves the heart through the aortic valve and travels through the aorta to the rest of the body. If the lining of the aorta becomes damaged, dilated, or weakened, it may require medication adjustment or even surgery. Learn more about aortic aneurysm or dissection.

“Part of the whole evaluation and treatment planning is being cared for by a multidisciplinary team that has expertise in a whole variety of treatment options, and great understanding and experience in matching a person’s clinical circumstance and clinical anatomy with the best treatment for them.” 

— Dr. Stephen H. Bailey, Thoracic and Cardiac Surgery 

Aortic valve treatment

We offer treatments for even the most complex forms of valve disease — including high-risk patients. By using state-of-the-art devices and offering procedures like transcatheter aortic valve replacement, we can treat even more complicated situations.

In addition to traditional treatment options, the AHN Cardiovascular Institute also provides the following procedures for aortic valve replacement management and repair, including:

• Standard valve replacement. Surgical aortic valve replacement surgery is performed through an open chest incision while the patient’s heart is placed on a heart-lung bypass machine.
• Minimally invasive valve replacement. A procedure involving either a small incision between the ribs or a partial opening of the chest, and high-definition 3D video monitoring. This method often results in minimal scarring, less pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery.
• Transcatheter aortic valve replacement. A procedure that replaces a diseased or damaged aortic valve with an artificial valve. This procedure typically involves no incisions and is performed through an artery in the groin. Learn more about transcatheter aortic valve replacement. 
• Balloon valvuloplasty. A temporizing minimally invasive procedure that uses a balloon-tipped catheter to widen a narrow heart valve.

Why choose us?

Our program combines the best aortic valve replacement surgeons with highly skilled teams from several medical specialties. Our patients choose us because of our:

Efficiency

We provide the most advanced options for imaging and testing. This allows specialists to provide an accurate diagnosis.

Coordination

You’ll meet with several specialists to help determine the best course of treatment for your conditions. Our team works together to review your diagnosis, progress, and management to ensure we consider all treatment options for your unique care plan.

Customized treatment plans

Based on a custom aortic valve replacement care plan, we closely monitor you with periodic checkups and provide suggestions for lifestyle changes, new therapies, and medications that may slow the progression of a condition and help avoid surgery altogether.

Expertise

Our team of aortic valve specialists includes vascular and cardiac surgeons, aortic pathologists, radiologists, and cardiologists who use advanced technologies to identify aortic conditions and the latest methods to treat them.

Our program leaders include:

AHN Aortic Valve Program appointments and information

Not yet diagnosed

If you don’t have a diagnosis, call (412) DOCTORS (412) 362-8677 to make an appointment with your primary care physician (PCP). They will explore all possible causes of your symptoms.

Second opinions or ready to schedule treatment

Connect directly with our aortic valve specialists at one of our AHN Aortic Valve Clinics.

Aortic valve research

AHN Cardiovascular Research Institute

AHN’s Cardiovascular Research Institute is established on more than 100 years of innovation with diverse areas of focus, including research for the latest heart disease treatments and cardiac technology. Our qualified team and heart valve specialists take pride in using state-of-the-art devices, technology, and therapies to help revolutionize care for heart disease.

What is a clinical trial?

Clinical trials are special research opportunities that explore medical treatments, strategies, or devices to ensure they’re safe and effective for human use.

Active clinical trials

By prioritizing research and innovation, our physicians and patients are engaged in more than 100 national and international clinical trials. Participating in these trials gives AHN patients special access to some of the newest potential treatment options for heart failure. Participation in clinical trials is based on meeting eligibility criteria.

To express interest in a clinical trial or to learn more about research opportunities, check out our active clinical trials.

Aortic Valve Program referral information for health care professionals

Refer your patient to the AHN Aortic Valve Program

Non-AHN providers can submit a referral online or by calling (844) MD-REFER (844) 637-3337.

Non-AHN providers can use the EpicCare® Link™ platform to view updates on their patients’ care within AHN after the initial referral is completed.

Medical records

If you need access to specific test results or imaging not provided in the EpicCare^® Link™ platform, please fill out a medical record request form.