Updated
What is aortic stenosis?
The aortic valve opens to let blood leave the heart. Aortic stenosis means the opening has become narrowed, often because the valve has thickened or calcified. Some people are born with a two-leaflet, or bicuspid, valve that can develop problems earlier.
An echocardiogram measures valve function and the heart's response. Terms such as mild, moderate and severe describe findings that must be interpreted together.
Why follow-up matters
Mild or moderate disease is often followed with periodic visits and echocardiograms. Your clinician sets the interval. Report new breathlessness, chest discomfort, dizziness, fainting or a decline in exercise capacity rather than waiting for the next planned scan.
Medication can treat associated conditions, but it does not reliably reverse a severely narrowed valve. In severe disease, the timing of intervention depends on symptoms, heart function and other findings.
TAVR and surgery
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR, also called TAVI) places a tissue valve through a catheter, often via an artery in the groin. Surgical aortic valve replacement is an operation to replace the valve.
A valve team considers your anatomy, age, health, expected valve durability, recovery needs and preferences. TAVR is not the best option for everyone. Both approaches have potential risks, including stroke, bleeding, infection and the possible need for a pacemaker; your team will explain the risks that apply to you.
After replacement, follow-up, medication instructions and dental care remain important. Ask for a written plan.
When to seek care
Call 911 for severe chest pain, fainting or severe breathing difficulty. New exertional symptoms should prompt contact with your care team. Ask about activity limits, especially if the valve narrowing is severe; avoid starting strenuous exercise without guidance.
Questions for your next visit
- How severe is my valve narrowing?
- Which symptoms should I report, and when is my next echo?
- If replacement is needed, how do we choose between TAVR and surgery?
References and further reading
- ACC: 2020 ACC/AHA Heart Valve Disease Guideline, Part 1
- ACC: Choosing TAVI or surgical valve replacement (2021)
- AHA: Heart Valve Disease Diagnosis and Testing (2026)
Use these sources with your own clinician's advice. Recommendations depend on your health history and can change as evidence develops.