An aortic valve replacement is a surgical procedure that replaces a malfunctioning or damaged aortic valve with a prosthetic valve. The aortic valve is one of four valves in the heart and is responsible for ensuring that blood flows in the correct direction—from the heart to the aorta and then to the rest of the body.
Reasons for Aortic Valve Replacement:
Aortic valve replacement is typically necessary in cases where the valve is no longer functioning properly. Conditions that may require valve replacement include:
• Aortic stenosis: A narrowing of the aortic valve that restricts blood flow, often caused by age-related calcification or a congenital defect.
• Aortic regurgitation: A condition where the aortic valve doesn’t close tightly, causing blood to flow backward into the heart.
• Congenital valve disease: A valve abnormality present from birth.
• Endocarditis: Infection of the heart valve that can damage the valve.
Types of Replacement Valves:
There are two main types of valves used in aortic valve replacement:
1. Mechanical valves: Made from synthetic materials such as titanium or carbon, mechanical valves are durable and long-lasting but require the patient to take blood thinners for life to prevent clot formation.
2. Biological (tissue) valves: Made from animal tissues, such as pig or cow valves, or from human donors. These valves don’t require lifelong blood thinners, but they may wear out faster, especially in younger patients, and may need replacement in the future.
Types of Aortic Valve Replacement Surgery:
1. Open-heart surgery: The traditional method, where the chest is opened to access the heart. The patient is placed on a heart-lung bypass machine during the procedure. This method provides a direct view of the heart and is preferred in many cases.
2. Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR): A less invasive method where a catheter is inserted through a blood vessel in the leg or chest and threaded to the heart to replace the valve. TAVR is typically recommended for patients who are at high risk for open-heart surgery.
Recovery and Risks:
After an aortic valve replacement, recovery depends on the type of surgery. Open-heart surgery requires a longer recovery period, typically 6-8 weeks. TAVR recovery is usually quicker, around 1-2 weeks.
Common risks associated with aortic valve replacement include:
• Infection
• Blood clots
• Valve malfunction
• Stroke or heart attack
• Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)
Prognosis:
Aortic valve replacement can significantly improve symptoms such as fatigue, chest pain, and shortness of breath and can extend life expectancy. Most patients experience an improved quality of life after the procedure.
https://news.uams.edu/2021/09/30/endocarditis/ Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board