Heart valve replacement procedure is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged heart valve with a new one. This surgery is essential for patients with severe valve disease that affects heart function. By removing the faulty valve and implanting a new one, this procedure restores normal blood flow, alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life.
Heart valve replacement surgery is necessary when the heart valve is damaged due to conditions such as valve stenosis (narrowing) or valve regurgitation (leaking). These conditions can lead to reduced blood flow, heart failure, and other serious issues. Common symptoms of heart valve disease include shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, and irregular heartbeats. Surgery may be recommended if the valve damage is severe and other treatment options, such as medications, are ineffective.
Heart valve surgery can be performed through various approaches, including:
The choice of technique depends on the patient's specific condition, including the type and severity of the valve issue, and other individual health factors.
Heart valve surgeries are typically performed by a cardiac surgeon who specialises in heart procedures. These professionals have the training and expertise to handle the complexities of valve repairs and replacements.
Kauvery Hospital is known for its world-class cardiac care, including heart valve replacement surgery. We use cutting-edge technology and advanced surgical techniques to treat heart valve diseases. Our team of experts ensures that every patient receives personalized care, tailored to their specific needs. Whether you need a traditional valve replacement or a minimally invasive procedure, we provide the highest quality care and support throughout your treatment journey.
At Kauvery Hospital, we offer Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery (MICS) as a state-of-the-art alternative to traditional open-heart surgery. MICS involves smaller incisions, resulting in less trauma to the body, reduced pain, and faster recovery times.
This innovative approach is ideal for patients requiring heart valve repair or replacement, as it allows for a quicker return to normal activities with minimal scarring. By utilising specialised instruments and advanced imaging technologies, our cardiac surgeons perform these procedures with the utmost precision, ensuring better outcomes and an enhanced overall patient experience.
MICS has become increasingly popular due to its numerous benefits, including decreased risk of infection, shorter hospital stays, and a faster return to daily life. At Kauvery Hospital, we are committed to offering the most advanced options for heart surgery, providing our patients with the best possible results while minimising recovery time and discomfort.
Kauvery Hospital is at the forefront of cardiac care with the introduction of robotic-assisted heart valve surgery. This cutting-edge technology allows surgeons to perform complex heart valve procedures with enhanced precision and control. Robotic-assisted surgery uses a highly advanced robotic system that enables the surgeon to operate through tiny incisions, making the procedure minimally invasive while ensuring greater accuracy in valve repairs and replacements.
With the aid of robotic systems, surgeons have a magnified 3D view of the heart, allowing for better visualisation of the delicate structures. This technology leads to fewer complications, shorter recovery periods, and improved overall outcomes. At Kauvery Hospital, we believe in combining advanced technology with compassionate care to ensure that every patient receives the best treatment available. Our robotic-assisted heart valve surgeries are part of our commitment to delivering the highest standard of care to those in need of cardiac surgery.
While heart valve surgery is generally safe, there are potential risks, including:
Some patients may react to materials used in the surgery. These reactions can range from mild skin irritation to severe anaphylaxis, requiring immediate medical intervention.
Excessive bleeding may require a transfusion. In some cases, it may necessitate blood transfusions or additional surgical procedures to control the bleeding.
Risk of infection at the incision site or within the heart. Deep infections, such as endocarditis, can pose serious health risks and may require prolonged antibiotic treatment or surgical removal of infected material.
Changes in heart rhythm may occur. While some arrhythmias resolve on their own, others may require medication, electrical cardioversion, or implantation of a pacemaker for management.
Though rare, there is a risk of stroke during or after surgery. Stroke may lead to long-term neurological complications, including paralysis, speech difficulties, or cognitive impairments.
In cases of valve replacement, there may be complications associated with the implanted valve. These issues might require close monitoring, medication, or further surgical intervention to address.
Undergoing heart valve surgery at Kauvery Hospital can lead to numerous benefits, including:
Repairing or replacing faulty valves allows for more efficient blood flow, improving overall heart function.
Patients often experience increased energy levels and improved physical capabilities following surgery.
Addressing valve issues minimises the risk of heart failure, stroke, and other serious conditions.
Successful surgery can prevent long-term damage to the heart and improve overall survival rates.
With successful valve replacement, patients can expect increased longevity due to the restored function and reduced strain on the heart.
Patients undergo thorough assessments to determine the best surgical approach.
Detailed explanation:
Before the procedure, patients undergo a comprehensive evaluation, including imaging studies and consultations to determine the best surgical approach. Detailed explanations are provided to ensure patients understand what to expect.
The procedure is conducted in a painless environment with careful monitoring of vital signs.
Detailed explanation:
Heart valve surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, ensuring that the patient is completely unconscious and pain-free throughout the operation. The surgical team continuously monitors vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, to maintain patient safety.
Depending on the surgical technique selected—open heart surgery or minimally invasive methods—the surgeon may make an incision in the chest to access the heart.
Specialised instruments are then used to repair or replace the damaged valve. Once the repair is complete, the surgical team meticulously closes the chest, ensuring that all procedures are conducted with precision to promote optimal recovery.
Patients receive essential guidance for recovery and regular follow-up appointments to track progress.
Detailed explanation:
After heart valve surgery, post-operative care is crucial for a successful recovery. Patients are closely monitored in a recovery area where healthcare professionals check vital signs and manage pain.
They receive specific guidance on activity limitations and medication regimens, which may include anticoagulants to prevent blood clots. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to assess recovery and the success of the surgery.
These appointments often include tests such as echocardiograms and stress tests to evaluate heart function and ensure that the valve is working properly. By adhering to the post-operative plan and attending follow-ups, patients can significantly enhance their recovery and overall heart health.
Patients undergo thorough assessments to determine the best surgical approach.
Before the procedure, patients undergo a comprehensive evaluation, including imaging studies and consultations to determine the best surgical approach. Detailed explanations are provided to ensure patients understand what to expect.
The procedure is conducted in a painless environment with careful monitoring of vital signs.
Detailed explanation:
Heart valve surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, ensuring that the patient is completely unconscious and pain-free throughout the operation. The surgical team continuously monitors vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, to maintain patient safety.
Depending on the surgical technique selected—open heart surgery or minimally invasive methods—the surgeon may make an incision in the chest to access the heart.
Specialised instruments are then used to repair or replace the damaged valve. Once the repair is complete, the surgical team meticulously closes the chest, ensuring that all procedures are conducted with precision to promote optimal recovery.
Patients receive essential guidance for recovery and regular follow-up appointments to track progress.
Detailed explanation:
After heart valve surgery, post-operative care is crucial for a successful recovery. Patients are closely monitored in a recovery area where healthcare professionals check vital signs and manage pain.
They receive specific guidance on activity limitations and medication regimens, which may include anticoagulants to prevent blood clots. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to assess recovery and the success of the surgery.
These appointments often include tests such as echocardiograms and stress tests to evaluate heart function and ensure that the valve is working properly. By adhering to the post-operative plan and attending follow-ups, patients can significantly enhance their recovery and overall heart health.
Most patients recover by 4 - 6 weeks with some physical restrictions related to driving and lifting weights for another 4 - 6 weeks.
In Minimally Invasive procedures recovery is much faster with not much physical restrictions.
Yes, certain heart valves can be replaced using minimally invasive procedures like transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), which doesn't require open heart surgery.
THERE WILL BE SOME SPECIFIC RESTRICTIONS WHICH WILL BE ADVISED.