There is very little evidence to suggest that bicuspid aortic valve patients need different treatment than patients with a "normal" aortic valve. The studies that indicate that the risk of aortic dissection was higher in bicuspid aortic valve patients were old, autopsy studies that definitely provide a bias view on the subject. There are numerous studies in patients who were followed and the growth of their ascending aorta was measured and clinical outcomes were measured. There was either no aortic dissection or other aortic complications during their follow-up. There will be a article coming out in the Annals of Thoracic Surgery from Dr. Griepp and the Mount Sinai Aortic Group in the next couple months related to this topic. Patients with bicuspid aortic valves can be followed carful before they may need surgery.

Careful Surveillance of Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms

Most patients have a significant amount of anxiety when they are informed that they have an aneurysm. If the aneurysm is too small to require surgery-diligent medical therapy is appropiate. Enrollment in an established aortic surveillence program is prudent. The annual CT scan or MRI can provide a great deal of reassurance that medical therapy is working. Please take charge of your care by seeking the appropiate aortic team. Look at my previous posting for aortic centers in the US.

Read Newsletter from Mount Sinai at www.aortarepair.com

Aortic Center in United States: (no particular order)

1. University of Pennsylvania

2. Mount Sinai Medical Center

3. Stanford University

4. John Hopkins Medical Center

5. Baylor University Medical Center

6. University of Texas at Houston

7. Cleveland Clinic