There are various diagnostic tests to ascertain the type of valve defect and thereby help in determining the most suitable surgery. They are:
1. Echocardiography: It is the main test for diagnosing diseases of the heart valve.
2. Transesophageal Echo (TEE): It is a procedure to get a better image of the heart.
3. Electrocardiogram: It is used to diagnose irregular heartbeat and signs of a previous heart attack.
4. Chest X-ray: It is performed to observe if the heart is enlarged or the presence of calcium deposits in the heart.
5. Cardiac Catheterization, Stress Testing, or Cardiac MRI: They help the doctor to assess how severe the condition is so they can plan the course of treatment.