Summary

Valvular heart disease is not usually regarded as a major public health problem. However, the prevalence of both mitral and aortic valve disease is increasing and is particularly troublesome for individuals aged =75 years [Nkomo VT et al. Lancet 2006]. European Society of Cardiology/European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery Guidelines on the management of valvular heart disease were updated in 2012 [Vahanian A et al. Eur Heart J 2012; Eur J Cardiothorac Surg 2012]. This article discusses some of the major changes that resulted from new evidence regarding risk stratification, diagnostic methods, and therapeutic options.