A bicuspid aortic valve is the most common congenital heart valve condition—affecting about 2% of people—and it’s more than just a valve issue. Having two cusps instead of three increases the risk of aortic stenosis (most common), aortic regurgitation, aortic root dilation, and aortic dissection (up to 5–10× higher risk). Many people feel fine for years, but problems often appear in midlife, which is why lifelong surveillance matters. References: Gropper M, et al. Miller’s Anesthesia, 9th ed., C