The normal aortic valve has three flaps (cusps) that open and close. A bicuspid valve has only two cusps. There may be no symptoms in childhood, but by adulthood (often middle age or older), the valve can become narrowed, making it harder for blood to pass through it, or it may start allowing blood to leak backward through it. Treatment depends on how well the valve works.
Bicuspid aortic valve is the most common congenital cardiac anomaly occurring in 1-2% of the population with males affected 4 times more frequently than females.
Bicuspid aortic valve is the most common congenital cardiac anomaly occurring in 1-2% of the population with males affected 4 times more frequently than females.