Last Updated on November 27, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir

For patients needing both aortic and mitral valve replacement, it’s important to know how long surgery takes. At Liv Hospital, we focus on you, giving you the care you need. We help you understand what to expect on your heart valve replacement journey.

Aortic and mitral valve replacement means removing and replacing both valves. This is done through open heart surgery. The surgery can last from 2 to 6 hours. This depends on how complex the case is and your health.

We will explain what affects the surgery time. We’ll also talk about the different ways to do the surgery.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding the complexity of aortic and mitral valve replacement surgery is vital for patients.
• The surgery can last from 2 to 6 hours.
• Open heart surgery is the usual way to replace valves.
• Your health and how complex the case is affect surgery time.
• Liv Hospital offers full care for international patients.

Understanding Heart Valve Disease and Replacement Needs

It’s key to grasp the details of heart valve disease to know if you need surgery. This condition happens when the heart’s valves don’t work right. It can stop blood from flowing properly and cause serious health problems.

Function of Aortic and Mitral Valves in Heart Circulation

The aortic and mitral valves are vital for blood flow. The aortic valve lets blood move from the left ventricle to the aorta. The mitral valve makes sure blood goes from the left atrium to the left ventricle. If these valves are sick or damaged, it can lead to heart failure.

Common Conditions Requiring Dual Valve Replacement

Some conditions mean you might need to replace both the aortic and mitral valves. This includes severe valve stenosis or regurgitation. It also includes endocarditis, a bacterial infection of the heart valves.

Diagnostic Process and Surgical Determination

Diagnosing heart valve disease involves several tests. These include echocardiograms, electrocardiograms, and cardiac catheterization. These tests show how damaged the valves are and if surgery is needed. New diagnostic methods make planning and doing surgery more precise.

Choosing to have valve replacement surgery can be scary. But, thanks to new surgical methods, like transcatheter and minimally invasive ones, recovery times are getting shorter.

Preparing for Valve Replacement Surgery

The journey to a successful valve replacement surgery starts with thorough preparation. This includes tests and education for the patient. We know this can be scary, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Pre-Surgical Testing and Evaluation

Before aortic and mitral valve replacement surgery, patients need to go through tests. These tests are echocardiograms, electrocardiograms (ECGs), and cardiac catheterization. We also look at the patient’s medical history and current health to make a plan just for them.

Patient Preparation Timeline

Getting ready for valve replacement surgery has a timeline. We tell patients to:

• Do the needed tests 1-2 weeks before surgery
• Follow pre-surgery instructions, including any changes to medication
• Make plans for recovery at home, getting support

This timeline might change based on the patient’s needs.

Day of Surgery Expectations

On surgery day, patients should expect to:

1. Arrive at the hospital 2 hours before surgery
2. Get ready by changing into a hospital gown
3. Talk with the surgical team about the procedure and any questions

Our team works hard to make this experience as easy as possible. We want to make sure you’re ready for your valve replacement surgery.

Standard Open Heart Valve Replacement Approach

Most patients choose open heart valve replacement because it works well. This surgery cuts through the chest to get to the heart. It lets our team directly replace the heart valves that need it.

The Traditional Sternotomy Method

The sternotomy method splits the sternum to get to the heart. It’s been used for years and is safe and effective. It gives great views and access to both the aortic and mitral valves, making it perfect for replacing both valves.

Cardiopulmonary Bypass Requirements

Open heart valve replacement surgery needs cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) to keep blood flowing and oxygenated. Our perfusion team takes care of the CPB machine. They make sure the blood is well-oxygenated and circulated.

Surgical Team Composition and Roles

The team for open heart valve replacement includes a cardiovascular surgeon, anesthesiologist, perfusionist, and nurses. Each one is key to the surgery’s success. The surgeon’s skill in valve replacement, along with the team’s teamwork, aims for the best patient outcome.

Minimally Invasive and Transcatheter Approaches

Cardiac surgery has evolved with new methods. Now, we have minimally invasive and transcatheter techniques for valve replacement. These new ways aim to cut down on recovery time and lessen the impact on patients.

Minimally Invasive Surgical Options

Minimally invasive heart surgery uses smaller cuts. It might lead to a quicker recovery than traditional surgery. We use special tools and methods to replace valves through smaller openings in the chest.

Transcatheter Valve Replacement Techniques

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a groundbreaking method. It lets us replace valves without open-heart surgery. A new valve is delivered to the heart through a catheter, usually from an artery in the leg.

Patient Selection Criteria for Alternative Approaches

Not every patient is right for these new methods. We look at each patient’s health, body, and overall condition. This helps us choose the best approach for them.

Impact on Overall Procedure Duration

These new methods might shorten the surgery time and recovery. But, how much it helps depends on the patient and the method used.

By using these new techniques, we can offer more choices to our patients. This might lead to faster healing and better results for everyone.

Aortic and Mitral Valve Replacement: Typical Duration

Knowing how long aortic and mitral valve replacement surgery takes is key for those about to undergo it. We’ll look at the usual time for these surgeries, the difference between single and double valve replacements, and the time spent in the operating room. This includes the time for anesthesia.

Average Timeframe for Open Heart Procedure

The usual time for an open heart surgery like aortic and mitral valve replacement is 2 to 6 hours. The exact time can change based on how complex the surgery is and the patient’s health. Things like needing extra surgeries or unexpected problems during the surgery can make it longer.

• The surgical team’s experience and efficiency
• The patient’s anatomical characteristics
• Any previous cardiac surgeries or conditions

Duration Differences Between Single and Double Valve Replacements

Replacing two valves, like the aortic and mitral valves, takes longer than one. More time is needed for the more complex procedure, including removing and replacing the second valve, and more time on the cardiopulmonary bypass. On average, replacing two valves can add 1 to 2 hours to the surgery time compared to one valve.

Total Time in Operating Room Including Anesthesia

The time a patient spends in the operating room includes the surgery, anesthesia, and initial recovery. This can add 30 minutes to 1 hour to the total time in the operating room. So, while surgery might take 2 to 6 hours, the total time in the OR can be 3 to 7 hours.

It’s important for patients to know that these times are just averages. Individual cases can vary. Our medical team will give a personalized estimate based on the patient’s specific situation.

Factors That Affect Surgery Duration

The time needed for aortic and mitral valve replacement surgery varies. The complexity of the case and the patient’s health are key factors. These elements greatly influence how long the surgery takes.

Patient-Specific Considerations

Age and health status are important for surgery duration. Older patients or those with health issues need more time and care. We plan the surgery carefully to ensure the best results.

Anatomical Challenges and Previous Surgeries

The patient’s anatomy and past surgeries also affect the surgery time. Complex structures or adhesions from previous surgeries need extra time. Our skilled surgeons are ready to handle these challenges.

Emergency vs. Planned Procedures

How urgent the surgery is also matters. Emergency surgeries need quick preparation and decisions, affecting the time. Planned surgeries, on the other hand, allow for more detailed preparation and can be more efficient.

Surgeon Experience and Hospital Volume

The surgeon’s experience and the hospital’s volume are critical. Surgeons with a lot of experience can work more efficiently. Hospitals that do many of these surgeries have better processes, leading to better results.

Surgical Sequencing in Double Valve Replacement

The success of double valve replacement surgery depends on several key factors. One of the most important is the order in which the aortic and mitral valves are replaced. This careful planning is essential to ensure the best results and avoid complications.

Critical Decision-Making in Valve Replacement Order

Choosing the order of valve replacement is complex. It depends on the patient’s condition, the severity of the valve disease, and the surgeon’s experience. Surgeons must consider the benefits and risks of replacing the aortic valve first or the mitral valve first. They must think about how each choice might affect the patient’s heart function and stability.

Several factors guide our decision on the sequence:

• The severity of the valve disease in each valve
• The patient’s hemodynamic status during the procedure
• The risk of complications based on the order of replacement

Aortic Valve Replacement Process and Timing

Aortic valve replacement (AVR) is a key part of double valve replacement surgery. The process involves removing the diseased aortic valve and replacing it with a prosthetic one. This ensures the valve works properly. The time needed for AVR can range from 45 to 90 minutes, depending on the case’s complexity and the prosthetic valve type.

Mitral Valve Replacement Process and Timing

Mitral valve replacement (MVR) is similar, with the diseased mitral valve being replaced by a prosthetic one. The time for MVR is usually the same as AVR, taking between 45 to 90 minutes. The surgeon’s experience and the technique used affect the exact timing.

Coordination Challenges in Combined Procedures

One big challenge in double valve replacement is coordinating the two procedures smoothly. Surgeons must manage the transition between AVR and MVR efficiently, keeping the heart stable. This requires skill and teamwork among the surgical team to handle any problems quickly.

We use advanced techniques and technologies to make the process smoother. This helps reduce risks and improve patient outcomes. The challenges in coordination show how important a well-planned surgical sequence is for success in double valve replacement surgeries.

Step-by-Step Procedure Timeline

Knowing the steps of aortic and mitral valve replacement surgery is key. It helps patients and their families get ready for the surgery. They can also know what to expect during the process.

Anesthesia Administration

The first step is getting anesthesia, which takes 30 to 60 minutes. The anesthesiologist makes sure the patient is comfortable and pain-free during the surgery.

Surgical Access and Setup

After getting anesthesia, the surgical team gets ready to access the heart. This setup takes about 30 to 60 minutes. It’s a vital part of the surgery’s success.

Cardiopulmonary Bypass Establishment

The next step is setting up cardiopulmonary bypass. This usually takes about 30 minutes. It’s important because it lets the team work on a stopped heart.

Valve Removal and Replacement

The heart of the surgery is replacing the diseased valves. This can take 60 to 120 minutes. It depends on how complex the case is and if both valves are being replaced.

Closing and Immediate Post-Operative Care

After replacing the valves, the team closes the incision. This final stage, including immediate care, takes about 30 to 60 minutes. The whole surgery in the operating room can last from 2 to 6 hours.

In conclusion, understanding the timeline of heart valve replacement surgery is important. It helps patients and their families know what to expect. By knowing each step, they can better prepare for the journey ahead.

Recovery Timeline After Valve Replacement Surgery

Knowing the recovery timeline after valve replacement surgery is key for patients. It helps them get ready for what’s coming. The recovery time depends on the surgery type and the patient’s health.

Immediate Post-Operative Period in ICU

Right after surgery, patients usually stay in the ICU for close monitoring. This can last from 24 to 72 hours. During this time, the medical team keeps a close eye on the patient’s health and manages any complications.

Hospital Stay Duration

After the ICU, patients move to a regular hospital room for more recovery. The hospital stay usually lasts from 5 to 10 days. Healthcare professionals provide constant care to help with the recovery.

Short-term Recovery Milestones

In the first six weeks after leaving the hospital, patients see big improvements. Key milestones include:

• Starting to do more physical activities
• Feeling better from symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain
• Getting used to new medications

Long-term Recovery and Return to Normal Activities

The long-term recovery phase can last 3 to 6 months. During this time, patients are expected to:

It’s vital for patients to follow their healthcare provider’s advice and go to follow-up appointments. Every patient’s journey is different. Our team is dedicated to supporting you through the recovery process.

Conclusion: Advancements in Heart Valve Surgery Efficiency

Heart valve surgery is getting better thanks to new techniques and technology. These changes aim to make surgeries more successful and quick. We’ve seen big improvements in aortic and mitral valve surgeries, making them safer and more effective.

As we keep working on these techniques, patients will get better results and stay in the hospital less. The future of heart valve surgery is bright. Ongoing research and innovation will make these surgeries even better.

Using the latest in heart valve surgery, we can give patients the best care. This improves their life quality and lowers the risk of problems. Our goal is to keep up with these advancements, ensuring our patients get top-notch treatment for heart valve disease.

References

• Medtronic: https://www.medtronic.com/en-us/l/patients/treatments-therapies/surgical-heart-valve-repair-and-replacement/aortic-and-mitral-valve-replacement/surgery-what-to-expect.html
• European Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (Academic OUP): https://academic.oup.com/ejcts/article/46/6/e139/2755284
• Endeavor Health: https://www.endeavorhealth.org/services/cardiovascular-institute/treatments-procedures/transcatheter/tmvr
• Massachusetts General Hospital (Mass General): https://www.massgeneral.org/heart-center/treatments-and-services/valve-repair-surgery
• American Heart Association (AHA): https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-valve-problems-and-disease/understanding-your-heart-valve-treatment-options/options-for-heart-valve-replacement