Understanding Aortic Valve Disease
Aortic valve disease occurs when the valve between the heart and the main artery does not work correctly. This can involve narrowing (stenosis) or leaking (regurgitation), affecting blood flow to the rest of the body. Key risk factors include age, high blood pressure, and previous heart infections.
Symptoms
Symptoms often develop slowly. We encourage patients to monitor for signs that may impact daily life, such as:
- Breathlessness during activity or while lying down
- Chest pain or tightness (angina)
- Dizziness or fainting episodes
- Persistent fatigue and reduced exercise capacity
Diagnosis
Accuracy is vital for effective care. Our clinic uses detailed diagnostic tests including specialist clinical exams, echocardiograms (ultrasound of the heart), ECGs, and advanced CT or angiography where required to map the valve structure precisely.
Treatment Options
We specialise in minimally invasive and robotic techniques to ensure high recovery standards. Treatment ranges from medical management to catheter-based procedures like TAVI. Where surgery is needed, we focus on small-incision access, offering benefits such as reduced pain and a quicker return to normal life.
Prevention and Recovery
Living well with valve disease involves regular cardiac follow-ups and heart-healthy lifestyle choices. We provide ongoing support to help you stay active. Seek urgent help if you experience sudden worsening of symptoms or chest pain.
Recognising the Symptoms
Aortic valve disease often develops gradually. Being aware of the early warning signs is crucial for timely assessment and access to minimally invasive heart treatments.
- Breathlessness – feeling short of breath, particularly during exercise or when lying flat.
- Chest Pain (Angina) – a sense of tightness, pressure, or squeezing, often triggered by physical activity.
- Dizziness or Fainting – feeling lightheaded or experiencing blackouts (syncope).
- Fatigue – an unusual level of tiredness or weakness during daily routines.
- Heart Palpitations – a feeling of a rapid, pounding, or fluttering heartbeat.
If you or a loved one are experiencing these symptoms, our London clinic provides expert diagnostic assessments to determine the most effective, minimally invasive surgical path forward.
Diagnosing Aortic Valve Disease
Obtaining an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward effective heart care. We use a range of precise, patient-friendly tests to assess the structure and function of your aortic valve, ensuring a treatment plan that is tailored to your unique clinical needs.
ECG and Clinical Exam
A physical examination and Electrocardiogram (ECG) are essential for checking your heart's electrical activity and rhythm.
Echocardiogram
Often considered the gold standard, this ultrasound test creates a clear image of your heart's valves to measure blood flow.
CT and Angiography
Advanced CT scans and invasive angiography allow us to assess the valve's calcification and evaluate coronary health simultaneously.
Advanced Treatment Options
We provide a comprehensive range of treatments for aortic valve disease, with a clear focus on minimally invasive and robotic techniques where suitable. These advanced options offer benefits such as smaller incisions, reduced discomfort, and a quicker return to your daily life.
Medical Management
For many patients, identifying and managing underlying risk factors with medication is the essential first step to protect heart function. Focus remains on long-term prevention.
TAVI / TAVR
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) is a catheter-based option where a new valve is inserted through a small cut in the groin, avoiding open heart surgery.
Keyhole Surgery
Minimally invasive keyhole procedures replace  the aortic valve without large chest cuts, aiding faster healing and reduced surgical risk. We offer both mini-sternotomy and right anterior thoracotomy approaches without having to cut your breast bone fully.Â
Long-term Recovery
Managing aortic valve disease involves a commitment to heart-healthy living through balanced diet, regular activity, and smoking cessation. Regular follow-up appointments allow us to monitor your valve function and ensure you feel reassured about your progress.
When to Seek Urgent Help: If you experience sudden chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, or swelling in your legs, please contact your doctor immediately.