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Pulmonary valve stenosis

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

Usually, pulmonary valve disease is caused by a heart problem that develops before birth. A heart problem present at birth is called a congenital heart defect. In adults, pulmonary valve stenosis may be a complication of another illness.

Pulmonary valve stenosis ranges from mild to severe. Some people with mild pulmonary valve stenosis don’t have symptoms. They may need only occasional health checkups. Moderate and severe pulmonary valve stenosis may need a procedure to repair or replace the valve.

Pulmonary valve stenosis symptoms depend on how much blood flow is blocked. Some people with mild pulmonary stenosis do not have symptoms. Those with more-severe pulmonary stenosis may first notice symptoms while exercising.

Pulmonary valve stenosis symptoms may include:

Babies with pulmonary valve stenosis may have blue or gray skin due to low oxygen levels.

Talk to your health care provider if you or your child has:

Prompt diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary valve stenosis can help reduce the risk of complications.

Pulmonary valve stenosis usually results from a heart problem present at birth. The exact cause is unclear. The pulmonary valve doesn’t develop properly as the baby is growing in the womb.

The pulmonary valve is made of three thin pieces of tissue called flaps, also called cusps. The cusps open and close with each heartbeat. They make sure blood moves in the right direction.

In pulmonary valve stenosis, one or more of the cusps may be stiff or thick. Sometimes the cusps may be joined together. That means they are fused. So the valve doesn’t open fully. The smaller opening makes it harder for blood to leave the lower right heart chamber. Pressure increases inside the chamber. The increased pressure strains the heart. Eventually the lower right heart chamber wall gets thicker.

Things that may increase the risk of pulmonary valve stenosis include:

Possible complications of pulmonary stenosis include:

Pulmonary valve stenosis is often diagnosed in childhood. But it may not be detected until later in life.

A health care provider uses a stethoscope to listen to the heart. A whooshing sound, called a heart murmur, may be heard. The sound is caused by choppy blood flow across the narrowed valve.

Tests to diagnose pulmonary valve stenosis include:

If you have mild pulmonary valve stenosis without symptoms, you may only need occasional health checkups.

If you have moderate or severe pulmonary valve stenosis, you may need a heart procedure or heart surgery. The type of procedure or surgery done depends on your overall health and the appearance of your pulmonary valve.

Surgeries or other procedures

Pulmonary valve stenosis treatment may include:

If you have valve disease, it’s important to take steps to keep your heart healthy. Certain lifestyle changes can decrease your risk of developing other types of heart disease or having a heart attack.

Lifestyle changes to talk about with your health care provider include:

If you or your child has valve disease, you will likely be referred to a doctor trained in evaluating and treating heart conditions. This type of provider is called a cardiologist.

Here’s some information to help you get ready for your appointment.

What you can do

Preparing a list of questions can help you make the most of your time with your health care provider. For pulmonary valve stenosis, some basic questions include:

Don’t hesitate to ask other questions.

What to expect from your doctor

Your health care provider is likely to ask many questions, including:

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