Mod-Sev Aortic Regurgitation

[cinnabar67]

I have a congenital defect in my aortic valve (floppy leaflet) that has been monitored all of my life.  I'm 42 and my (new) cardiologist says my heart is de-compensating for the defect.  The left ventricle has increased in size from 5.7 to 6.4 sonometers in the past year.  She says I need surgery within the next year.  I'm going to see about getting a second opinion, mostly because I've only seen this doctor twice and haven't built up any trust with her yet.

1.  Any experts with an opinion on the change in size?
2.  Might I be a candidate for repair rather than replacement of the valve?  I have low blood pressure, low cholesterol, and am in pretty good physical condition and not overweight.  The only medical "issue" I have is that I take synthetic thyroid pills for hypothyroidism (for the past year).
3.  Any guidance on determining the best hospital and best surgeon in the San Jose, CA area?

Thanks!

[cinnabar67]

I don't have any symptoms now, except occasional palpitations.  Nothing unusual for me.  Yes, my aortic valve leaks; we've known that since I was four and they have been monitoring me for any changes.

My heart has always been somewhat enlarged, but I was always told that until it begins to change (like now apparently) it's best to wait for surgery to correct the valve.

Anyone have thoughts on repair vs. replacement, or recommendations for surgeons & hospitals?  I'm seriously thinking about Sequoia Hospital because the rating sites appear to give it the best "grade."  They also do the most valve replacements in the area and have a lower rate of complications than Stanford.

[ed34]

What are your symptoms at present?
If your Cardiologist has said you have mod-sev Aortic leakage, then that's what you have. It's hardly likely this would be a mistake made from an echocardiogram. As your
heart is trying to compensate by enlarging to push more blood out of the chamber. This will cause problems in itself and you (in my opinion) will require surgery so it can return back to its normal size. I would seriously take the advice given by your cardiologist, it sounds like she wants what is best for you long term.

[cinnabar67]

oops - I just figured out it's centimeter (not sonometer) with just a different pronunciation!