Natriuretic peptides including B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and NT-proBNP may be more sensitive markers of left ventricular damage than morphologic studies such as echocardiography. The use of BNP or NT-proBNP levels may help timing the surgical intervention before irreversible left ventricular damage has occurred. Previous experience with BNP and NT-proBNP testing in patients with valvular heart disease is limited, albeit promising.