Cardiac Valve Disorders Overview

Question 1

Is normal vessel / heart cavity geometry necessary for proper valve functioning?

Answer 1

Yes. Dilated vessels / cavities can lead valves not to close fully -> regurgitation.

Question 2

What chambers are affected by a stenotic valve?

Answer 2

Requires increased pressure in the chamber upstream of the valve, and impairs ability to increase CO.

Question 3

What chambers are affected by a regurgitant valve?

Answer 3

Both the chamber upstream and downstream have an increased volume load.
CO can often be preserved.