Overview

Cardiac valves ensure unidirectional blood flow and include the mitral tricuspid aortic and pulmonary valves. Valve leaflets chordae tendineae and papillary muscles coordinate opening and closure during the cardiac cycle. Valve integrity is essential for efficient cardiac function.

Mitral and Tricuspid Valves

The mitral valve controls flow from left atrium to left ventricle and the tricuspid valve from right atrium to right ventricle. Regurgitation or stenosis of these valves affects preload and ventricular loading conditions. Echocardiography evaluates valve morphology and hemodynamic impact.

Aortic and Pulmonary Valves

The aortic valve regulates outflow from the left ventricle to the aorta and the pulmonary valve from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery. Calcific disease congenital anomalies and endocarditis affect valve function. CT and echo guide intervention planning including valve replacement.

Clinical Relevance

Valvular heart disease causes heart failure arrhythmia and embolic risk. Imaging quantifies severity and guides timing of repair or replacement. Multidisciplinary heart teams optimize patient outcomes.