There are four valves located in the heart. Each valve either
consists of two or three folds of thin tissue. When closed, the
valve prevents blood from flowing backwards to its previous
location. When open the valve allows blood to flow freely. Valve
problems can occur because of congenital abnormalities, infection,
or other causes.
Review Date: 05/17/2010
Reviewed By: Shabir Bhimji, MD, PhD, Specializing in Cardiothoracic and Vascular
Surgery, Midland, TX. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare
Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director,
A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
