Question:
I have a mild leaking aortic valve, enlarged heart, will this hinder WLS?

anyone out there with similar heart problems and has had WLS, were there any problems?    — Patricia K. (posted on November 12, 2002)

November 11, 2002
Regurgitation of the aortic valve is different then a mitral valve prolapse and should be evaluated with a 2D echocardiogram. There are several degrees of leaking that can only measured with a doppler. Surgery will depend on the ejection fraction and whether or not the cardiologist clears you to go. It also depends on what is causing your heart to become enlarged. There are medications that can help this and I encourage to see a cardiologist right away so it can be taken care of and you can have the procedure.
   — Sue A.

November 12, 2002
Basically, you'll need a cardiac clearance from a cardiologist.
   — Lynette B.

November 13, 2002
I have an enlarged heart. I have an arrythmia, and fat deposits around it. The heart doc told surgeon, my heart is healthy enough for surgery and will be even more healthy after I lose weight. This is me, not you. Qnly the doc can give clearance, but I hope this somehow helps your emotional state on the subject. I had open RNY on Sept. 16, 2002.
   — Jenny_B