Open BAV

The opening of a BAV resembles the open mouth of a fish, leading to the term “fish mouth” valve.

BAV and the Greatest Dangers Not everything is understood, but some of the greatest dangers are known. While not everything is understood about bicuspid aortic disease, some of the most dangerous aspects of it are known. This disease can present the greatest threat to life due to abnormalities that are seen in the heart valves, aorta, and vessels of the head and neck. For those with abnormal aortic valves, as with any heart valve condition, it is important to obtain expert medical care. However, focusing on the valve alone is not enough. It is not safe to think that if a bicuspid aortic valve has been removed, repaired, or continues to work well that everything is all right, because there is still a risk of aortic dissection or rupture. Ignoring other potential affects of this disease can be dangerous. Aneurysm and dissection are serious, life- threatening conditions. For those with replaced valves, prosthetic (artificial) heart valves are a good but not perfect solution and require lifelong monitoring and potentially another replacement. Repair of the bicuspid aortic valve may be offered in some situations, but the repaired valve must also be monitored. There is also a risk of developing endocarditis. Even less is known about the apparently trileaflet members of BAV families. More studies are needed that encompass family members who are apparently trileaflet, in order to better understand them.

Closed BAV

When closed, it may be difficult to distinguish a BAV from an aortic valve with all three leaflets.

Tricuspid Aortic Valve

Closed TAV

A normal aortic valve has three leaflets or cusps. Pictured here is a TAV with the leaflets closed. The opening of a TAV is shaped like a triangle.

Aortic Aneurysm The aorta in those from BAV families may be enlarged and balloon out, which is called an aneurysm.