Mayo Clinic Talks Heart Health Series | Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease
Feb 5, 2026
George Wang, cardiologist specializing in valvular disease and aortic pathology, discusses bicuspid aortic valve disease and related aortopathy. He covers genetics and valve shapes. He reviews how and when the condition is found, imaging and surveillance strategies, medical control of risk factors, surgical thresholds, and lifestyle considerations like exercise and pregnancy.
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Use Exam Clues To Suspect Bicuspid Valve
- Listen for systolic or diastolic murmurs and signs of significant stenosis or regurgitation on exam.
- Perform a full exam for connective tissue features that raise suspicion for associated aortopathy.
Echo First, Cross‑Sectional Imaging If Needed
- Start with transthoracic echocardiography to diagnose and visualize the root and ascending aorta.
- If transthoracic images are inadequate, get CT or MRI for full thoracic aorta assessment.
Individualize Surveillance Intervals
- Tailor surveillance frequency to valve and aorta severity: years for mild disease, annually for moderate–severe disease.
- For new aortic dilation, obtain cross‑sectional imaging at ~6 months then annual or biannual follow-up as stability dictates.