Part 1: The Basics

- Where is the heart located, and what are its components?

-Why are the heart valves important?

-What happens when the valves malfunction?

 
Part 2: Causes, symptoms and diagnosis

- What are the mechanisms of degenerative valve disease?

- Which valve or valves are affected by ischemic valve disease?

 
Part 3: Treatment decisions

- What needs to be done if there is a valve problem?

- What are the general guidelines for surgical intervention?

- Who needs endocarditis prophylaxis?

 
Part 4: Surgical management

- What are the types of surgery for valve disorders?

- What are the long-term outcomes with artificial valves?

- What are the complications of warfarin therapy?

 
Part 5: Specific Valves Problems

- Are there nonsurgical approaches available for severe mitral regurgitation?

- What is mitral stenosis and what are the causes?

- Am I a candidate for percutaneous valve therapy?