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Valvular Heart Disease in Pregnancy
Anna E Bortnick1, Lisa D Levine2
1Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, and Maternal Fetal Medicine-Cardiology Joint Program at the Montefiore Medical Center and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York.
Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology
|October 1, 2020
Summary
Valvular heart disease in women of reproductive age is increasing. Managing this condition during pregnancy requires collaboration between patients and a specialized heart team to reduce risks.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Obstetrics
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Rising prevalence of valvular heart disease (VHD) among women of reproductive age.
- VHD constitutes one-third of heart disease cases in pregnant women.
- Significant association between severe left-sided cardiac lesions and adverse maternal/fetal outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the growing concern of VHD in pregnant women.
- To underscore the risks associated with specific cardiac conditions and interventions.
- To emphasize the necessity of multidisciplinary care for improved outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Review of current epidemiological data on VHD in pregnant women.
- Analysis of clinical outcomes associated with severe VHD and mechanical heart valves.
- Emphasis on collaborative decision-making models.
Main Results:
- Valvular heart disease is a significant and increasing issue in pregnant women.
- Severe symptomatic left-sided lesions (mitral/aortic stenosis) and mechanical valves pose risks.
- Adverse maternal and fetal outcomes are linked to these cardiac conditions.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of VHD in pregnancy is crucial.
- Shared decision-making involving patients and a heart team is essential.
- Multidisciplinary collaboration (obstetricians, MFM, cardiologists) is key to mitigating risks.
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