Information for the public

This procedure works well for aortic stenosis and there are no serious concerns about its safety.

Aortic stenosis happens when the aortic valve, which lets blood flow out of the heart, becomes narrowed (stenosed). This reduces blood flow from the heart. This puts strain on the heart and can cause an enlarged heart, irregular heartbeat, chest pain and sudden collapse. In this procedure, a cut is made in the chest. There are a number of ways this valve can be inserted and your surgeon will explain how they are going to do it to suit you. The heart is then connected to a heart-lung bypass machine. The narrowed aortic valve is removed and replaced with an artificial valve that holds itself in place.

NHS Choices may be a good place to find out more. NICE’s information on interventional procedures guidance has more about what a procedure is and how we assess them.

Is this procedure right for me?

If you’ve been offered this procedure, your healthcare professionals should discuss with you what is involved, and tell you about the risks and benefits. They should talk with you about your options, and listen carefully to your views and concerns. Your family can be involved too, if you wish. All of this should happen before you agree (consent) to have the procedure. You should also be told how to find more information about the procedure. Read more about making decisions about your care.

Some questions to think about

  • What does the procedure involve?
  • What are the possible benefits? How likely am I to get them?
  • What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
  • What happens if the procedure doesn’t work or something goes wrong?
  • What happens if I don’t want the procedure? Are there other treatments available?

NICE’s information on interventional procedures guidance has more about what a procedure is and how we assess them.

ISBN: 978-1-4731-3063-0


This page was last updated: