ABSTRACT
The study of valvular heart disease has progressed rapidly over the past two decades. The understanding of etiology and natural history, the precision of noninvasive assessment, and the surgical and interventional management of valve disease have all improved dramatically. Coupled with an appreciation of physiologic principles, thoughtful interviews and physical exam, current technology allows clinicians to characterize valve lesions fully. In addition, evolving techniques in interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery, guided by quantitative outcome analysis, have reduced the morbidity and mortality of these procedures. Throughout this handbook, we have endeavored to incorporate these developments.
