Since it is the [1] Fourth of July weekend here in the United States, I thought it would be interesting to write a blog that connects the number “4″ to heart valves. That said, here goes nothin’…

In the past, we’ve discussed the unique anatomy of heart valve leaflets - the tissue flaps that open and close in the valve to ensure that blood flows in one direction through the heart. While the aortic, tricuspid and pulmonary valves typically have three leaflets (also known as [2] heart valve flaps), the mitral valve only has two leaflets. Here is a diagram of the human heart valves illustrating this point.

We have also discussed the genetic issues which produce irregular leaflet counts. For example, [3] Shannon’s unicuspid heart valve discovery?

This brings me to my heart valve trivia question of the day. That question is, “Do quadricuspid heart valves - valves with four leaflets - exist?” (To find out the answer, scroll below this image of a quadricuspid heart valve… Hint! Hint!)

Although rare, the picture above shows an actual quadricuspid heart valve. If you look close enough, you can see four, distinct leaflets within the valve. So, yes! Quadricuspid valves do exist. Here is another picture that shows a heart valve with four tissue flaps.

So you know, I just exchanged emails with Nova, a patient [4] preparing for quadricuspid aortic valve replacement.

I hope that helps you learn more about the variable leaflet structure of our heart valves - especially quadricuspid heart valves!!!

Keep on tickin!

P.S. To leave a comment, please [5] click here.

About The Author: [6] To learn more about Adam and his heart valve surgery book, click here.