stenosis

  I have a bicuspid Aortic valve and am 52 yrs old in excellent condition otherwise..
  I have no symptoms other than slight shortness of breath  upon heavy exertion
  The valve is getting pretty tight ..I think under 2cm.. maybe 1.5?
  WHat is the best valve to use as in this circumstance when it needs to be replaced which they think
  is in the next couple of yrs
  
  I know this is a stupid question and there is no one answer but I wanted to see what kind of response
  I might get
  Thank you
  Ted

[Cleveland Clinic, MD]

Dear  Ted,
I don't think this is a stupid question at all.  The type of valve to use (if necessary) is not a straightforward choice and depends upon multiple factors.  First, let me provide some review for those readers who may not be familiar with bicuspid aortic valve.
The aortic valve is the valve that separates the left ventricle from the aorta.  It is made of 3 leaflets or flaps that look like an peace symbol when the valve is closed.  A bicuspid aortic valve means that there are 2 leaflets instead of the usual 3.  A unicuspid valve means there is only one leaflet.   Bicuspid aortic valve is the most common congenital anomaly of the heart.  These valves are functional at birth and remain so throughout a normal life span.  There is a increased predisposition to progress to stenosis (narrowing) as an older adult (60-70