Ask the doctor: Should I wait to have my aortic valve replaced?

Ask the doctor

Should I wait to have my aortic valve replaced?

Published: October, 2009

Q. I am an 85-year-old man with advanced aortic valve stenosis, coronary artery disease, and atrial fibrillation. Otherwise, my general health is pretty good. My doctor said I should wait until I experience symptoms or signs of heart failure before having my aortic valve replaced. Shouldn't I get it done before my heart gets so stressed that I go into heart failure?

A. You are getting good advice from your doctor.

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