What Is the Difference Between Stenosis and Regurgitation

A narrowed or stenotic valve requires the heart to pump harder, which can strain the heart and reduce blood flow to the body. A regurgitant (incompetent, insufficient, or leaky) valve does not close completely, letting blood move backward through the valve.

Is regurgitation the same as stenosis?

In aortic stenosis, the valve narrows, restricting blood flow from the heart. In aortic regurgitation, the valve opening does not close completely, causing blood to leak backward into the heart.

What causes stenosis and regurgitation?

Mitral valve stenosis occurs when the mitral valve in your heart narrows, restricting blood flow into the main pumping chamber. Your mitral valve may also leak, causing blood to flow back through the valve each time the left ventricle contracts. This condition is called mitral valve regurgitation.