The International Stroke Conference was held in New Orleans on February 20 - 22,
2008. Among the poster presentations was the following abstract, of particular
interest to those with BAVD: Screening for Intracranial Aneurysms in Bicuspid Aortic Valve. Wouter Schievink, Sharo Raissi, Marcel Maya; Cedars-Sinai Med Cntr, Los Angeles, CA Introduction: Bicuspid aortic valve is a common congenital heart defect affecting 1-2% of the population. A generalized connective tissue disorder has been suspected in this patient population. We therefore screened a group of patients with bicuspid aortic valve for the presence of intracranial aneurysms. Methods: Magnetic resonance angiography was used in 47 pateints with bicuspid aortic valve (age, 30 - 68 (mean 48)) and in 288 controls matched for sex and age. Results: Intracranial aneurysms were found in 11% (5/47) of patients with bicuspid aortic valve and in 1% (3/288) of controls (p<0.01). Conclusion: Patients with bicuspid aortic valve are at an increased risk of developing intracranial aneurysms. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation is aware of several families where BAVD is associated with brain aneurysms. Carrie Mettler, Secretary of the Foundation's Board of Directors, is among those with BAVD who have successfully undergone brain aneurysm surgery. I was with Carrie when Dr. Schievink told her that there was an aneurysm behind her left eye. It was a tremendous shock. Carrie had previously been diagnosed with a BAV and ascending aortic aneurysm. If the aneurysms (there were two, one very small) in her brain had not been discovered, it could have resulted in grave injury to Carrie, possibly the loss of her life. The presentation of the above work is an important step, adding to the body of knowledge about BAVD. As we gain understanding about aneurysms - in the aorta and the brain - associated with bicuspid aortic valves, may this knowledge be used to increase the safety of those with BAVD, enabling them to continue to live active, productive lives. Increasing knowledge of BAVD, including the increased risk of brain aneurysms, is creating a climate of hope. Sincerely, Arlys Velebir Chair, Board of Directors Bicuspid Aortic Foundation Contact Us Bicuspid Aortic Foundation 30100 Town Center Drive, Suite O-299 Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 Telephone Toll free in the US (888) 310-HOPE (4673) or495-0027 Fax: (949) 606-0413 Email: contactus@bicuspidfoundation.com Copyright © 2004 - 2008, Bicuspid Aortic Foundation. All Rights Reserved. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation recognizes the importance of maintaining the privacy of individuals who use its web site. In using the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation web site, you are agreeing to the terms of this privacy policy. If you do not wish to accept the terms of this privacy policy, please do not access the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation web site. All personal information provided to the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation will be kept confidential within the Foundation, and will not be disclosed to any third party without the permission of the individual. Email and messages sent through the web site are not secure. Therefore, personal information you transmit to the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation may be intercepted by others and is done at your own risk. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation may contact you regarding topics of interest. If you do not wish to receive such communications, you may contact the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation and indicate that you do not wish to receive them. If at a later time you again wish to receive such information, you may indicate that by contacting the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation makes no representation whatsoever regarding the privacy policy of other web sites whose links are on the Bicuspid Foundation web site. Your usage of other web sites is entirely at your own risk. You should carefully read the privacy policies of all web sites that you visit. Please contact the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation regarding any questions you may have about this policy. The information on the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation website is provided for general informational purposes only. This information is not professional, legal, or medical advice. Any medications, products, or treatment mentioned are presented as information only and do not constitute any recommendation, approval, or endorsement. Any information is general in nature and is not a substitute for medical care. You should contact a physician or other qualified medical professional for advice about all health-related conditions. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation, including its officers, directors, volunteers and any others acting on its behalf, individually and collectively, make no representations or warranties, expressed or implied, regarding the contents of this website, including its accuracy, completeness, or reliability. Any links or references to other websites provided on the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation website are made available as a convenience only. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation has not reviewed all of the websites linked to this website and is not responsible for the content of these sites or your use of them. |
Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease |
All aortic aneurysm and dissection in the chest |
For families and medical professionals, by families and medical professionals |
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Creating a climate of hope |
BICUSPID AORTIC FOUNDATION |
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Is Something We Create Together . . . .
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The View from Here . . . . February & March 2008 |