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Last Updated on November 27, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir
Heart valve disease affects millions globally, and surgery is often needed to fix heart function. At Liv Hospital, we focus on advanced treatments with a patient-first approach. Our team works hard to offer top-notch heart valve repair surgery and replacement choices.
Every year, over 40,000 mitral valve replacements happen in the U.S., says the Society of Thoracic Surgery (STS) National Database. We dive into the different surgical and replacement options. This includes the newest in minimally invasive and transcatheter methods, as detailed in our guide on heart valve replacement surgery.
It’s key to know how heart valves work to spot and fix heart issues. The heart has four valves. They make sure blood flows right.
The heart has four valves: mitral, tricuspid, pulmonary, and aortic. Each valve helps blood flow in the right direction. The mitral and tricuspid valves let blood move between the atria and ventricles. The pulmonary and aortic valves control blood flow to the lungs and the body.
Heart valve disease comes in different forms. Mitral regurgitation is the most common. Other types are stenosis (narrowing) and regurgitation (leakage). Severe mitral regurgitation can be deadly if not treated.
| Valve Disease | Description |
|---|---|
| Mitral Regurgitation | Leakage of the mitral valve |
| Aortic Stenosis | Narrowing of the aortic valve |
| Tricuspid Regurgitation | Leakage of the tricuspid valve |
Symptoms of heart valve issues include shortness of breath, chest pain, and tiredness. Severe problems can cause heart failure if not treated. Spotting these symptoms early is vital for managing heart valve disease.
Healthcare professionals use a mix of clinical checks and advanced tests to find heart valve disease. We use many tools to check how well the heart valves work. This helps us choose the best treatment.
First, we do a detailed physical check and look at the patient’s health history. We search for signs like murmurs or odd heartbeats. This helps us understand the patient’s overall health and find any risks.
Echocardiography gives us clear pictures of the heart valves. We might also use Cardiac CT for more detailed views. This is very helpful for Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement (TMVR).
Sometimes, cardiac catheterization is needed to check the heart valves and arteries more closely. We use special tests to get more info about the valve condition. This helps us decide on treatments like cardiac valve replacement or leaky heart valve surgery.
The need for heart valve repair or replacement depends on how bad the valve condition is and the patient’s health. If the heart valve is badly damaged or diseased, surgery might be needed to fix it.
Surgery is usually suggested when symptoms are very bad or when the valve isn’t working right. Doctors look at many things, like echocardiogram results and the patient’s medical history, to decide if surgery is needed.
It’s important to know the risks of heart valve surgery. Doctors consider things like age, health, and other medical conditions to figure out the risk for each patient.
| Factor | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Severity of Symptoms | Significant symptoms impact daily life |
| Valve Dysfunction | Echocardiogram shows significant dysfunction |
| Overall Health | Presence of other medical conditions |
Our heart team, made up of cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, and other experts, works together to decide on heart valve repair or replacement. This team approach means patients get care that’s just right for them.
Fixing a heart valve requires different surgical methods, each suited for a specific condition. The choice of method depends on the valve’s type, how severe the disease is, and the patient’s health.
Repairing the valve leaflets is key in heart surgery. Techniques like leaflet resection, plication, and patching help the valve work right again. Our skilled surgeons use these methods to get the best results.
Annuloplasty fixes or replaces the valve’s ring-like structure. A prosthetic ring or band is used to support the valve and improve its function. For more on heart valve repair surgery, check out https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/treatments/heart-valve-repair-surgery.
Commissurotomy treats stenotic valves by cutting fused commissures. Other special techniques, like chordal replacement and papillary muscle repair, tackle complex valve issues.
Mitral valve repair is very common. It uses methods like annuloplasty, leaflet repair, and chordal replacement to fix the valve. A new technology, transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR), is being studied for treating mitral regurgitation.
Aortic valve repair is more complex. It needs precise techniques to fix the valve. These include leaflet repair, commissurotomy, and subcommissural annuloplasty.
| Surgical Technique | Description | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Valve Leaflet Repair | Involves repairing or patching the valve leaflets | Mitral and aortic valve repair |
| Annuloplasty | Repairing or replacing the valve annulus | Mitral, tricuspid, and aortic valve repair |
| Commissurotomy | Cutting fused commissures to relieve stenosis | Mitral and aortic valve repair |
Heart valve replacement is a key surgery for those with severe valve disease. It’s needed when a valve can’t be fixed. This surgery helps the heart work better and improves life quality.
Mechanical heart valves are strong and made from materials like titanium or pyrolytic carbon. They last a long time but need lifelong blood thinner treatment to stop blood clots.
Types of Mechanical Valves: There are several types, including bileaflet and tilting disk valves, each with its own design and functionality.
Biological heart valves come from animal tissue, usually pigs or cows. They are treated to be safe for humans. They are less likely to cause blood clots and might not need long-term blood thinner treatment.
Durability Considerations: Biological valves don’t last as long and may need to be replaced. But, they are often chosen for older patients or those who can’t take blood thinners.
The choice between mechanical and biological valves depends on several factors. These include the patient’s age, lifestyle, and blood thinner needs.
Younger patients might choose mechanical valves for their long life. Older patients might prefer biological valves to avoid blood thinners.
People with active lifestyles or at risk of bleeding might prefer biological valves. They usually don’t need lifelong blood thinners.
| Valve Type | Durability | Anticoagulation Requirement | Suitable Patient Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical | Long-lasting | Lifelong anticoagulation | Younger patients, those tolerant of anticoagulation |
| Biological | Limited lifespan (10-15 years) | Short-term or no anticoagulation | Older patients, those at risk of bleeding |
Traditional open heart surgery is the top choice for most heart valve replacements. It has been perfected over years, giving a trusted way to fix or replace bad heart valves.
Before surgery, patients get a full check-up. This includes looking at their medical history, doing a physical exam, and running tests like echocardiograms and cardiac catheterization. We also give clear instructions on what to do before surgery, like managing medications and making lifestyle changes.
For open heart surgery, we make a cut in the chest to get to the heart. The surgery is done under general anesthesia. We use a heart-lung bypass machine to keep blood flowing and oxygen levels up while the heart stops. This lets us fix or swap out the bad valve with great care.
Right after surgery, patients are watched closely in the ICU for any issues. We help manage pain and support them as they heal. The ICU team works hard to make sure patients smoothly move into the recovery phase. There, patients start to get up and begin their rehab.
Knowing what happens in traditional open heart surgery helps patients get ready for it and the healing time that follows. Our team is all in on giving top-notch care and support every step of the way.
For those needing heart valve repair or replacement, there’s a less invasive option. These methods are becoming more popular. They promise quicker recovery times and less scarring.
Mini-thoracotomy makes a small chest incision to reach the heart. It’s a way to fix or replace valves with less damage. Advances in this method have made it even more precise and less invasive.
Robotic-assisted surgery goes further by using robots for better control and precision. It allows for detailed repairs and replacements with tiny incisions. Our team is skilled in using this technology for the best results.
These heart valve procedures have many benefits. They lead to quicker recovery, less scarring, and possibly fewer complications. Yet, they also have some drawbacks. They need special training and equipment.
One big plus of these procedures is the faster recovery. Patients feel less pain and can get back to their lives sooner. Plus, the smaller cuts mean less scarring.
Not every patient is right for these minimally invasive surgeries. The choice depends on several factors. These include the patient’s health, the type and severity of valve disease, and their body’s structure.
| Procedure | Benefits | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Mini-Thoracotomy | Less tissue disruption, reduced scarring | Requires specialized training |
| Robotic-Assisted Surgery | Enhanced precision, smaller incisions | High equipment costs, technical issues |
We carefully look at each patient to choose the best treatment. By using the latest in minimally invasive procedures, we aim for the best results and a smooth recovery for our patients.
Transcatheter heart valve procedures are changing how we treat heart valve diseases. They offer a less invasive option compared to traditional surgery. These new methods allow doctors to fix or replace valves through small incisions.
TAVR is a key treatment for aortic stenosis, where the aortic valve narrows. It involves placing a new valve through a catheter, usually from the leg. TAVR has greatly improved symptoms and survival for those at high risk for surgery.
The MitraClip is a system for treating mitral regurgitation. It clips the mitral valve leaflets together to reduce leaks. The technology has improved, making it safer and more effective. For more on mitral valve replacement, see this guide.
New technologies in transcatheter heart valve procedures are exciting. Valve-in-Valve procedures are one example. They involve placing a new valve inside a failing one, without open-heart surgery.
Valve-in-Valve procedures are gaining popularity. They allow for a new valve to be placed inside a failing one. This avoids the need for another open-heart surgery.
Choosing the right transcatheter procedure depends on many factors. These include the patient’s health, valve condition, and more. Our team works with patients to find the best treatment, using the latest technologies.
Surgery for leaky heart valves is complex. It depends on how bad the leak is and the patient’s health. We’ll talk about the special things to consider in this surgery. This includes how to fix mitral, aortic, and tricuspid valve leaks.
Mitral regurgitation happens when the mitral valve doesn’t close right. This lets blood flow back into the heart. Fixing the mitral valve is often better than replacing it. It keeps the patient’s own valve and avoids long-term blood thinners.
Key Techniques:
Aortic regurgitation is when the aortic valve doesn’t close right. This causes blood to leak back into the left ventricle. Doctors look at how bad the leak is and how it affects the heart.
Considerations:
Tricuspid regurgitation lets blood leak back through the tricuspid valve. Fixing this valve is key to avoid right heart failure.
| Valve Condition | Repair Technique | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Mitral Regurgitation | Leaflet repair, Annuloplasty | Preserves native valve, avoids anticoagulation |
| Aortic Regurgitation | Valve replacement or repair | Improves heart function, reduces symptoms |
| Tricuspid Regurgitation | Annuloplasty, Leaflet repair | Prevents right heart failure, improves survival |
Leaky heart valve surgery can seem scary. Our team is here to help. We provide personalized care and support to ensure the best results.
It’s important to know the risks and complications of heart valve surgery. This knowledge helps patients make informed decisions. Heart valve procedures are generally safe but have risks that patients need to understand.
Heart valve surgery has big risks, like bleeding, infection, and bad reactions to anesthesia. The surgery’s complexity means surgical complications can happen. These can include valve problems or the need for more surgeries.
Patients may face long-term issues after surgery, like valve wear or mechanical valve problems. Biological valves might need to be replaced sooner. Mechanical valves carry a lifelong risk of thrombosis and anticoagulation-related issues.
We use several ways to lower risks, like choosing the right patients and using careful surgery techniques. Anticoagulation management is key for mechanical valve patients to avoid blood clots.
Managing anticoagulation means checking levels and adjusting doses to avoid blood clots and bleeding.
Stopping endocarditis is vital for heart valve surgery patients. This includes prophylactic antibiotics before dental and medical procedures and good oral care.
By knowing these risks and using strategies to reduce them, we can improve outcomes for heart valve surgery patients.
The journey to recovery after heart valve surgery is complex. It needs a detailed plan to ensure the best results. We focus on a complete approach to help patients get better.
Right after surgery, patients stay in the ICU to watch for any issues. Once they’re stable, they move to a regular room. “The early recovery phase is key,” says a top cardiothoracic surgeon. “Our team is here to support you.”
Cardiac rehab is a big part of getting better. It helps patients build strength and improve heart health. Our team creates special plans for each patient, including exercises and education.
As patients get better, they can start doing things they love again. This includes:
Start with simple exercises like walking. Then, slowly add more intensity and time. Always listen to your healthcare team to avoid pushing too hard.
Healthy choices are key for long-term recovery. This means quitting smoking, drinking less, and managing health issues like high blood pressure and diabetes.
By sticking to these tips and working with your healthcare team, you can have a great recovery. This will help you live a better life after heart valve surgery.
Heart valve treatment has seen big improvements, leading to better patient outcomes. We’ve looked at the different ways to fix or replace heart valves. This includes new, less invasive methods.
The world of heart valve treatment is always changing. New treatments like transcatheter heart valve therapies are making a big impact. Our team works hard to keep up with these advances, ensuring our patients get the best care.
We’re always looking to improve heart valve treatment. We support patients from all over, helping them through their treatment. Our goal is to provide top-notch healthcare and make a real difference in people’s lives.
Heart valve replacement is a surgery. It replaces a damaged heart valve with a new one. This can be a mechanical or biological valve.
Repair fixes the valve. Replacement takes out the old valve and puts in a new one.
Yes, traditional valve replacement is open heart surgery. But, some procedures like TAVR are minimally invasive. They don’t need open heart surgery.
Risks include bleeding, infection, and stroke. There are also risks from anesthesia and long-term issues like valve failure.
Recovery time varies. Most patients spend days in the hospital and weeks or months at home.
Cardiac rehab helps patients recover. It includes exercise and education to improve heart health and reduce risks.
Yes, most patients can get back to normal. But, it’s important to follow your healthcare team’s instructions for a safe recovery.
Anticoagulation therapy is needed for some patients. Our team will guide you on how to manage it safely.
Procedures like mini-thoracotomy and robotic-assisted surgery have benefits. They have smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery.
TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure for aortic stenosis. It’s for those at high risk for open heart surgery.
The choice depends on your valve disease, health, and other factors. Our team will help decide the best treatment for you.
Heart valve replacement is a surgery. It replaces a damaged heart valve with a new one. This can be a mechanical or biological valve.
Repair fixes the valve. Replacement takes out the old valve and puts in a new one.
Yes, traditional valve replacement is open heart surgery. But, some procedures like TAVR are minimally invasive. They don’t need open heart surgery.
Risks include bleeding, infection, and stroke. There are also risks from anesthesia and long-term issues like valve failure.
Recovery time varies. Most patients spend days in the hospital and weeks or months at home.
Cardiac rehab helps patients recover. It includes exercise and education to improve heart health and reduce risks.
Yes, most patients can get back to normal. But, it’s important to follow your healthcare team’s instructions for a safe recovery.
Anticoagulation therapy is needed for some patients. Our team will guide you on how to manage it safely.
Procedures like mini-thoracotomy and robotic-assisted surgery have benefits. They have smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery.
TAVR is a minimally invasive procedure for aortic stenosis. It’s for those at high risk for open heart surgery.
The choice depends on your valve disease, health, and other factors. Our team will help decide the best treatment for you.
