Bicuspid Aortic Valve Center

The aortic valve separates the heart from the aorta, the main vessel that supplies blood to the brain and body. Normally, the aortic valve has three leaflets that open to let blood flow to the aorta and body, and then close to keep blood from going back into the heart. A bicuspid aortic valve is unique in that it only has two leaflets.

Individuals with a bicuspid aortic valve may be at risk for developing a narrowed (aortic stenosis) or leaky (aortic regurgitation) valve early in life. Some patients with a bicuspid aortic valve also have an abnormal aorta that puts them at risk for enlarged aortic segments (aortic aneurysm). Determining the right time to intervene on these issues is complex and requires a center with significant experience in caring for patients with this unique anatomy.

The Columbia University/NewYork Presbyterian Hospital Bicuspid Valve Center is multi-disciplinary team of cardiologists, cardiac surgeons and researchers dedicated to improving care for patients with a bicuspid aortic valve. Our cardiology and cardiac surgery teams have a long track record and an outstanding reputation in caring for patients with a bicuspid aortic valve in patients of all ages. In particular, we have unique expertise in caring for young adults with valvular and aortic disease as a consequence of a bicuspid valve.  Because there are few guidelines defining the optimum timing for intervention in this special population, this track record is of particular importance in helping to define when, and if, surgery is indicated.  

Our center takes a comprehensive approach to treatment that includes multimodality imaging, genetic risk assessment, and patient preference. We have access to the most up-to-date invasive treatment options including bicuspid valve repair, valve replacement, and cutting-edge catheter-based therapies. When surgery is required, there are many options to consider including minimally invasive surgery, aortic valve repair, mechanical and prosthetic aortic valve replacement, the Ross procedure, the David procedure, the Bentall procedure and others. Also importantly, our center is one of the most experienced in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in patients with a bicuspid valve.

Moreover, advanced medical management with close follow-up by our experts and cutting-edge imaging technology has allowed many of our patients, who were informed by other programs that surgery was needed, to avoid or delay in undergoing surgery.

Our group will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan that also accounts for your preferences.