Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis (SAS) is a medical condition characterized by the narrowing of the aortic valve or the area just below the valve. The aortic valve is responsible for regulating blood flow from the left ventricle of the heart to the aorta, the main artery that carries oxygenated blood to the body.
In cases of subvalvular aortic stenosis, there is an obstruction that restricts the smooth flow of blood through the aortic valve, placing additional strain on the heart and reducing the amount of blood that can be pumped out to the body. This condition typically results from the presence of abnormal tissue growth or muscle thickening just below the aortic valve, causing a narrowing or partial blockage of the blood flow.
Subvalvular aortic stenosis can be congenital, meaning present at birth, or acquired over time due to other heart conditions or diseases. Symptoms can vary, ranging from none to severe, depending on the degree of obstruction and the individual patient. Common symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, decreased exercise tolerance, and fainting spells.
Treatment options for subvalvular aortic stenosis depend on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may not require intervention, but regular monitoring by a cardiologist is necessary. In more severe cases, medical management, such as medications to control blood pressure and heart rate, may be prescribed. If the condition becomes life-threatening or significantly affects the individual's quality of life, surgical interventions such as balloon valvuloplasty or open-heart surgery may be necessary to manage the stenosis and improve blood flow.
