Valve Disease Treatment with Dr Jennifer Zhou
Valvular heart disease, and particularly aortic stenosis, is a condition that requires careful monitoring and expert care. For patients in Melbourne, access to the right cardiologist can make a significant difference to both treatment outcomes and quality of life.
Dr Jennifer Zhou, a leading cardiologist in Melbourne, has extensive experience in diagnosing and managing valve disease. Her approach combines medical expertise with compassionate, patient-focused care, ensuring that every individual receives the support and guidance they need. This article explains what aortic stenosis is, why early treatment matters, and how Dr Zhou and the team at Cardiology Specialists Melbourne provide advanced treatment options, including TAVI.
What is Aortic Stenosis?
Aortic stenosis occurs when the aortic valve (the valve that regulates blood flow from the heart’s left ventricle to the body) becomes narrowed or stiff. This makes it harder for the heart to pump blood forward, leading to symptoms such as:
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or fainting
- Chest discomfort or pressure
The condition often develops gradually. In older adults, it is usually linked to age-related calcification of the valve, though it can also result from congenital heart abnormalities, rheumatic fever, or past radiation treatment. Because it is a progressive disease, aortic stenosis requires regular assessment to determine the right time for intervention.
Why Specialist Care Matters
Valve disease can range from mild to severe, and management strategies depend heavily on the stage of disease and the patient’s overall health. While mild aortic stenosis may only need monitoring and lifestyle management, advanced cases can lead to heart failure if left untreated.
This is why seeing an aortic stenosis specialist such as Dr Jennifer Zhou is so important. With access to advanced diagnostic tools, including echocardiography, cardiac MRI, CT scans, and coronary angiography, Dr Zhou is able to provide accurate diagnoses and personalised treatment recommendations.
Her expertise ensures patients not only receive appropriate medical care, but also feel supported throughout what can be a challenging journey.
Treatment Options for Aortic Stenosis
Dr Zhou offers a range of evidence-based treatments for aortic stenosis in Melbourne, carefully matched to each patient’s needs:
- Medical management – Medications can help control symptoms and manage other health conditions, such as high blood pressure, though they cannot reverse the valve narrowing itself.
- Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement (SAVR) – The traditional open-heart procedure where the diseased valve is replaced with a mechanical or biological prosthetic valve.
- Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) – A minimally invasive procedure in which a new valve is implanted via a catheter, usually through an artery in the groin. This option is particularly valuable for older patients or those considered at higher surgical risk.
TAVI has transformed valve disease treatment in Melbourne, reducing recovery times, lowering risks associated with open surgery, and offering patients the chance to return to daily life sooner.
Comprehensive Care with Dr Jennifer Zhou
At Cardiology Specialists Melbourne, Dr Zhou provides an integrated approach to care.
This includes:
- Thorough diagnostic assessment
- Clear, patient-friendly explanations of treatment choices
- Access to state-of-the-art procedures, including TAVI in Melbourne
- Long-term follow-up and monitoring of valve and heart function
Follow-up care is essential. Even after successful treatment, patients require regular reviews to monitor valve performance and overall heart health. Dr Zhou’s emphasis on continuity of care ensures her patients feel supported long after the initial procedure.
Accessing Care
Patients can see Dr Jennifer Zhou through referral from their GP or another specialist. With multiple clinic locations and a focus on accessibility, Cardiology Specialists Melbourne provides convenient access to expert care for patients across the region.
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of valve disease, or if you’ve been told you may need treatment for aortic stenosis, arranging an appointment with Dr Zhou can help clarify your options and provide peace of mind.
Taking the Next Step
Valve disease, particularly aortic stenosis, should never be ignored. Early intervention leads to better outcomes, helping prevent complications and preserve long-term heart function. With the support of Dr Jennifer Zhou, a trusted aortic stenosis specialist in Melbourne, patients can feel confident they are receiving world-class care tailored to their needs.
To explore your treatment options, including TAVI in Melbourne, book a consultation with Dr Jennifer Zhou at Cardiology Specialists Melbourne today.