What It Is The aorta is the largest, main artery through which blood flows from the heart to the rest of the body. When the aorta is affected by disease, it can split (dissection) or bulge (aneurysm). An aortic aneurysm is a weak, bulging area in the wall of the aorta and it tends to…

What it is The aorta is the largest artery in the body. It begins at the heart and runs through the chest and abdomen. Sometimes the walls of the aorta weaken and bulge in one area. An aortic repair supports or replaces the weakened area. Reasons for Procedure To prevent an aneurysm from rupturing/bursting, which…

What it is The aortic arch has branches of arteries that supply blood to the head and upper body. Aneurysms of the aortic arch are weakened walls, which may lead to dissection (a tear in the vessel) or rupture. Reasons for Procedure To remove diseased section of the aortic arch. Possible ComplicationsIf you are planning…

What is Aortic Valve Disease? Aortic valve disease is a condition in which the valve between the left ventricle (main pumping chamber) of the heart and the aorta (main artery) to the body doesn’t work properly. Aortic valve disease sometimes may be present at birth or may result from other causes over time. The two…

What it is The aortic valve is located between the pumping chamber on the left side of the heart and the aorta, which is a major artery. The aorta carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. The valve should be closed while the heart is filling with blood. When the…

What it is “In this day and age, any type of cardiac surgery is such a big deal, along with the recovery. You need to take advantage of these modern procedures. It makes a big difference for the recovery.” – Charles E. The aortic valve is located between the pumping chamber on the left side…

What is Mitral Valve Disease? Mitral valve disease occurs when the valve between the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart doesn’t work properly resulting in mitral valve regurgitation (leakage) or mitral valve stenosis (narrowing). Mitral valve regurgitation (leakage) is a condition where the leaflets of the mitral valve weaken, causing blood to leak back…

What it is The mitral valve is on the left side of the heart. It allows blood to flow from the left upper chamber into the left lower chamber. When the valve is not working well, it may need to be replaced. Reasons for Procedure Healthy heart valves allow blood to flow one way. Diseased…

What it is The mitral valve is on the left side of the heart. It allows blood to flow from the left upper chamber into the left lower chamber. When the valve is not working well, it may need to be repaired. Reasons for ProcedureMitral valve repair is the best option for many patients with…