Heart Valve Surgery is a medical procedure performed to repair or replace damaged or diseased heart valves. The heart has four valves—mitral, tricuspid, aortic, and pulmonary—that control blood flow in and out of the heart chambers. During heart valve surgery, a cardiac surgeon repairs the damaged valve or replaces it with a prosthetic valve to restore normal blood flow and improve heart function.

When and why do people go for Heart Valve Surgery?

People undergo Heart Valve Surgery when they experience severe symptoms or complications due to heart valve disease. Common reasons for heart valve surgery include valve stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leakage), which can lead to symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, or heart failure. The decision to undergo surgery is typically made when conservative treatments such as medication fail to adequately manage symptoms or when there's a risk of serious complications, such as stroke or heart failure.

What makes Heart Valve Surgery different from other treatment options?

Heart Valve Surgery offers a definitive solution for treating severe heart valve disease compared to other treatment options. Unlike medication alone, which may only manage symptoms or slow disease progression, heart valve surgery directly addresses the underlying structural issues within the heart valves. This can involve repairing the damaged valve tissue, reshaping the valve, or replacing the valve with a mechanical or biological prosthetic. Heart valve surgery provides long-term relief from symptoms, improves heart function, and reduces the risk of complications associated with untreated valve disease.

How does life change after Heart Valve Surgery?

Life after Heart Valve Surgery can bring about significant improvements in symptoms, quality of life, and overall heart function. Following the procedure, many patients experience relief from symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue, as the repaired or replaced valve restores normal blood flow and heart function. With improved heart valve function, individuals often find it easier to engage in daily activities, exercise, and lead an active lifestyle. While recovery may involve some time for healing and rehabilitation, many patients experience a renewed sense of well-being and improved cardiovascular health following Heart Valve Surgery.