When the doctor needs a new heart valve
A Harvard physician's experience with aortic stenosis — from the heart murmur first detected 10 years ago to his recent open-heart surgery.
- Reviewed by Christopher P. Cannon, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Heart Letter; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
About one in every 20 people over age 65 has a stiff, narrowed aortic valve. This hard-working valve regulates the flow of blood from the heart to the rest of the body. A decade ago, Dr. Howard LeWine, chief medical editor of Harvard Health Publishing, was diagnosed with aortic stenosis at the age of 66. Earlier this year, he underwent a surgical aortic valve replacement. Here's his story.
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About the Author
Julie Corliss, Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter
About the Reviewer
Christopher P. Cannon, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Heart Letter; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
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