What is an aortic stenosis?

A valve problem: Aortic stenosis is a hardening of the last valve in the heart; this valve is the last thing blood passes through before it is sent out to the body. As you would expect, this valve is called the aortic valve. Symptoms of aortic stenosis can include chest pain, passing out and heart failure symptoms. The treatment of severe aortic stenosis is almost always surgical.

Narrow valve: Narrowing of the valve leaving the heart which is progressive, has no cure besides surgery. Once at least moderate needs yearly follow up.

Small valve: The aortic valve opens when the heart contracts, allowing the blood to flow from the heart to the aorta which supplies the body. When aortic stenosis occurs, the aortic valve narrows, impeding the flow of blood out of the heart. If the patients develops any symptoms, surgical replacement is needed.

Narrowing of the: Aortic valve by calcification causing fixed restriction of blood flow out of the heart.