Aorticvalvereplacement
Introduction
Source: NHS
In this topic (7)
An aortic valve replacement is a type of open heart surgery used to treat problems with the heart's aortic valve.
The aortic valve controls the flow of blood out from the heart to the rest of the body.
An aortic valve replacement involves removing a faulty or damaged valve and replacing it with a new one made from synthetic materials or animal tissue.
It's a major operation that isn't suitable for everyone and can take a long time to recover from.
When is it necessary to replace the aortic valve?
The aortic valve may need to be replaced for two reasons:
- the valve has become narrowed (aortic stenosis) the opening of the valve becomes smaller, obstructing the flow of blood out of the heart
- the valve is leaky (aortic regurgitation) the valve allows blood to flow back through into the heart
The problems can get worse over time and insevere cases can lead to life-threateningproblems such as Heart failure , if left untreated.
There are no medicines to treat aortic valve problems, so replacing the valve will be recommended if you're at risk of serious complications, but are otherwise well enough to have surgery.
This means you'll be asleep during the operation and won't feel any pain while it's carried out.
During the procedure:
- a large cut (incision)about 25cm long is made in your chest to accessyour heart although sometimes a smaller cut may be made
- your heart isstopped and a heart-lung (bypass) machine is used totake overthe job of yourheartduring the operation
- the damaged or faulty valve is removed and replaced with the new one
- yourheart is restarted and the opening inyour chest is closed
The operation usually takes a few hours. You'll have a discussion with your doctor or surgeon before the procedure to decide whether a synthetic or animal tissue replacement valve is most suitable for you.
Incision
An incision is a cut made in the body with a surgical instrument during an operation.
Articles for Aorticvalvereplacement
Alternatives to aortic valve replacement
Aortic valve replacement is the most effective treatment for aortic valve diseases. However, it can place tremendous strain on the body and alternatives procedures may be needed.
Introduction
An aortic valve replacement involves removing a faulty or damaged valve and replacing it with a new one made from synthetic materials or animal tissue. It's a major operation that isn't suitable for everyone.
Patient story: "I'm really glad I had it done."
Mike Tennant found a new lease of life having his aortic valve replaced. "I had the operation just before Christmas and it's given me a new lease of life." says Mike.
Recovering from an aortic valve replacement
After an aortic valve replacement, you'll usually need to stay in hospital for about a week. Your breastbone will usually heal in about six to eight weeks, but it may be two to three months before you feel your normal self again.
Risks of an aortic valve replacement
Like any type of surgery, anaortic valve replacement is associated with a number of complications. Fortunately, serious problems are uncommon. The risk of experiencing complications is generally higher for older people and those in generally poor health.
What happens before and during an aortic valve replacement?
An aortic valve replacement is a major operation and will only be carried out if you're well enough to have surgery. There are two main types of replacement valve: mechanical valves and biological valves.
Why you might need an aortic valve replacement
An aortic valve replacement is used to treat conditions affecting the aortic valve. These are known as aortic valve diseases.Without treatment, severe aortic valve disease is likely to get worse and may eventually be fatal.
