BIRTH DEFECTS

Bicuspid aortic valve
The aortic valve is situated at the top of the left ventricle, and blood must pass through this valve in order to enter the aorta where it is distributed to the rest of the body. Normally there are three cusps making up the aortic valve. With a bicuspid aortic valve, there are only two cusps. On its own, bicuspid aortic valve usually presents with no symptoms; however, by middle age the valve may become stiff and thickened resulting in a case of aortic stenosis. Bicuspid aortic valve is the least threatening of the LCFLs and also is the most common congenital heart defect.

Click here to return to the LCFL defects list

Click here to return to the birth defects list