Aortic Valve Repair

Aortic valve repair is a surgical technique performed to correct structural abnormalities or dysfunctions of the aortic valve, which is responsible for regulating blood flow from the heart's left ventricle to the aorta. The procedure of Aortic Valve Repair aims to restore the valve's normal function, prevent further deterioration, and avoid the need for a valve replacement.

Survival Rate of Heart Valve Replacement Surgery

Aortic Valve Repair Techniques:

There are several techniques used in aortic valve repair, each tailored to the specific characteristics of the valve and the patient's condition:

• Valvuloplasty: This procedure involves reshaping the valve leaflets and annulus to improve their function. It can include techniques such as commissurotomy (cutting the fused valve leaflets), decalcification (removing calcium deposits), and annuloplasty (reinforcing the valve ring).

• Leaflet Repair: Surgeons can repair damaged or prolapsed aortic valve leaflets by removing excess tissue, suturing tears, or reinforcing weak areas with patches.

• Reimplantation of the Valve: In some cases, the entire valve may be removed and then reattached within the aorta. This technique of aortic valve repair can help correct annular dilatation and maintain the natural anatomy of the valve.

• Valve-Sparing Root Replacement: This is a more complex procedure that involves replacing the aortic valve repair root while preserving the patient's own aortic valve. It is typically used for patients with aortic root aneurysms.

• Minimally Invasive Approaches: Some aortic valve repairs can be performed through minimally invasive techniques, involving smaller incisions, shorter recovery times, and reduced scarring compared to traditional open-heart surgery.

Benefits of Aortic Valve Repair

• Improved Heart Function: Repairing the valve helps the heart pump blood more efficiently, improving overall heart health.
• Reduced Symptoms: Many people feel better after the surgery, with less shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue.
• Long-Term Solution: Repairing the valve can last longer than replacing it, reducing the need for future surgeries.
• Preserves the Natural Valve: Repairing the valve instead of replacing it can help the heart function more naturally over time.

Risks of Aortic Valve Repair

• Infection: After Aortic Valve Repair surgery, there is a small risk of infection, either at the incision site or in the heart.
• Bleeding: Some people may experience bleeding during or after the surgery.
• Heart Rhythm Problems: Irregular heartbeats can happen after the repair and may need extra treatment.
• Valve Problems: In some cases, the valve may not work perfectly after the repair, and another surgery might be needed.
• Blood Clots: There is a risk of blood clots forming after the procedure, which can be serious.

Aortic valve repair is typically performed under general anesthesia in a hospital's cardiac surgery suite. The steps involved in the surgical procedure can vary depending on the chosen repair technique.

Before the Procedure of Aortic Valve Repair

• Tests and Checkups: Patient will go for tests like heart scans, blood tests, and possibly an X-ray to check the heart and the aortic valve. This helps the doctor plan the surgery.
• Meet Your Care Team: You’ll talk to your surgeon and nurses, who will explain what will happen and answer any questions. You might also get instructions to stop certain medications.
• Hospital Prep: On the day of surgery, you’ll check into the hospital. Nurses will prepare you for surgery, including setting up an IV for fluids and medications.

During the Procedure Aortic Valve Repair

• Anesthesia: You’ll be given general anesthesia, so you’ll be asleep and won’t feel anything during the surgery.
• Surgery Steps: The surgeon will make a small cut in your chest to reach the heart. Then, they’ll carefully repair the damaged aortic valve by reshaping, strengthening, or adding support around it.
• Closing Up: Once the valve is repaired, the surgeon will close the chest incision, and you’ll be moved to a recovery area.

After the Procedure Aortic Valve Repair

• Recovery Room: You’ll wake up in a recovery room where doctors and nurses monitor you closely to make sure everything is okay.
• Hospital Stay: Most people stay in the hospital for a few days to make sure the heart is healing well. Nurses will help with pain relief and give any needed medications.
• At-Home Care: After going home, you’ll have follow-up appointments to track your recovery. It’s important to avoid heavy activities at first and to take any prescribed medications.
  Cardiac Rehabilitation: Your doctor might recommend a program to help strengthen your heart through light exercises and guidance on staying healthy.