Heart Valve Center

The Heart Valve Center at The University of Tennessee Medical Center provides a coordinated, comprehensive approach to the diagnosis and treatment of heart valve disease.

Patients are seen by heart team specialists in an environment designed to expedite diagnosis and treatment. Patients have access to leading-edge technology and multi-disciplinary specialists who work collaboratively to optimize patient treatment and care.

Our coordinated approach allows patients to complete a full comprehensive diagnostic assessment and work-up with minimal visits to the medical center. We understand your time is valuable. Our goal is to minimize the number of visits needed for evaluation.

Causes and Symptoms of Heart Valve Disease

Heart valve disease occurs when one or more heart valves do not function properly. The most common causes are congenital abnormalities, infection and age-related changes.

Symptoms of heart valve disease include:

• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue during exertion
• Cough (especially when laying down)
• Difficulty sleeping due to coughing
• Heart palpitations (racing)
• Chest pain or tightness
• Dizziness
• Heart murmur
• Swollen feet or ankles

If heart valve disease is left untreated, it can lead to heart failure, stroke, blood clots, sudden cardiac arrest and death.

Our Team

Our team includes:

• Cardiothoracic surgeons
• Cardiologists
• Vascular surgeons
• Pulmonologists
• Anesthesiologists
• Specialized nurses
• Respiratory therapists
• Vascular and cardiovascular technologists
• Other support services

This coordinated team will develop and recommend the best treatment for each patient.