Valvular heart disease can occur in what forms?
A) Insufficiency
B) Stenosis
C) Contracture
D) Both a and b

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Valvular heart disease is an acquired or congenital disorder that can involve any of the four valves of the heart (see Figure 10-32). This condition can occur in the form of either insufficiency or stenosis. Insufficiency, the failure of the valves to close completely, allows blood to be forced back into the previous chamber as the heart contracts. This exerts added pressure on that chamber and increases the heart's workload. Stenosis, a hardening of the cusps of the valves that prevents complete opening of the valves, impedes the blood flow into the next chamber (see Figure 10-34).

Valvular Heart Disease Can Occur in What Forms