Calcific aortic stenosis: medical and surgical management in the elderly.

Calcific aortic stenosis is the number one indication for surgical valve replacement in the United States. Until recently, it was thought to be a passive degenerative process. However, recent retrospective studies have demonstrated that the risk factors for valvular disease are similar to those of vascular disease. Furthermore, targeting this process with medical therapy may be a future possibility to delay timing of valve replacement in this patient population. This paper reviews the current retrospective studies, experimental studies, and future clinical trials that will impact our understanding of this disease process and the future of medical therapy for these patients.