Diseases and Conditions

Pulmonary valve stenosis

Overview

Pulmonary valve stenosis is a narrowing of the valve located between the lower right heart chamber (right ventricle) and the lung arteries (pulmonary arteries). In a narrowed heart valve, the valve flaps (cusps) may become thick or stiff. This reduces blood flow through the valve.

Usually, pulmonary valve disease results from a heart problem that develops before birth (congenital heart defect). However, adults may develop pulmonary valve stenosis as a complication of another illness.

Pulmonary valve stenosis ranges from mild to severe. Some people with mild pulmonary valve stenosis don't notice any symptoms and may only require occasional doctor's checkups. Moderate and severe pulmonary valve stenosis may require a procedure to repair or replace the valve.