Aortic Valve Replacement Surgery in Delhi, India

At this time the procedure is reserved for those people for whom an open heart procedure poses intermediate risk. For that reason, most people who have this procedure are in their 70s or 80 and often have other medical conditions that make them a better candidate for this type of heart valve surgery. TAVR can be an effective option to improve quality of life in patients who otherwise have limited choices for repair of their aortic valve.

Our experts specialize in the techniques required for stenotic aortic valve. Consult our team to know which is an appropriate procedure for you.

Valvular heart surgery is required if the heart valve has been damaged due to:

• Congenital heart defect
• Endocarditis
• Rheumatic heart disease
• Aging/Degenerative

Depending upon the extent and location of damage, valves can be either repaired or replaced by different procedures like:

• For Valve Narrowing (Stenosis): Closed or open valvulotomy is performed. In this procedure, an incision is made in a fused/narrow valve to restore the valve opening. However, if the restructure of the valve is deranged then a valve replacement is done using a mechanical/metallic (St. Jude or Medtronic Valve) or a bioprosthetic (porcine valve).
• Valve Regurgitation: Advanced repair techniques are used for valve leaflets as well as subvalvular apparatus. In case, its repairing is not feasible then valve replacement is done. We are equipped with cardiac surgeons who specialize in repair techniques for regurgitant mitral valves. Valve replacement is only done for extreme structural abnormality of mitral valve.

For all your patients suffering from severe aortic stenosis unless determined to be at low surgical risk for open heart surgery, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), sometimes referred to as transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), is a less invasive procedure that does not require open-heart surgery.

This minimally invasive surgical procedure repairs the valve without removing the old, damaged valve. Instead, it wedges a replacement valve into the aortic valve’s place.

Valve-in-Valve - How does it work?

Somewhat similar to a stent placed in an artery, the TAVR approach delivers a fully collapsible replacement valve to the valve site through a catheter.

Once the new valve is expanded, it pushes the old valve leaflets out of the way and the tissue in the replacement valve takes over the job of regulating blood flow.

What is aortic valve replacement?
Aortic valve replacement is a surgical procedure in which a diseased or damaged aortic valve is removed and replaced with a biological or mechanical valve (usually made from animal or human tissue).

Why is aortic valve replacement necessary?
Aortic valve replacement is needed when the aortic valve becomes diseased or damaged, leading to conditions such as aortic stenosis (narrowing of the valve) or aortic regurgitation (leaky valve). It helps restore normal blood flow through the heart.

How is aortic valve disease diagnosed?
Aortic valve disease is diagnosed through medical history, physical examination, imaging tests (such as echocardiogram), and sometimes additional tests like cardiac catheterization or CT angiography.

What are some symptoms of aortic valve disease?
Symptoms of aortic valve disease are chest pain, dizziness, heart palpitations, fatigue, shortness of breath, and fainting. However, some individuals may not experience noticeable symptoms until the condition has progressed.

Are there different types of aortic valve replacements?
Yes, there are two main types of aortic valve replacements: mechanical valves and biological valves. Mechanical valves are made of more durable materials and last longer but require lifelong blood-thinning medication. Biological valves do not require blood-thinning medication but have a limited lifespan.

How is the choice between mechanical and biological valves made?
The choice between mechanical and biological valves is made based on factors like age, lifestyle, overall health, preference, and the advice of the heart surgeon.

How long does an aortic valve replacement surgery take?
The duration of aortic valve replacement surgery varies depending on the complexity of the case, but it typically takes between 2 to 4 hours.

What is the recovery period after aortic valve replacement surgery?
The recovery period after aortic valve replacement surgery can vary, but most individuals spend a few days in the hospital and require several weeks or months for a full recovery, including rehabilitation and returning to normal activities.

What are the risks and complications associated with aortic valve replacement surgery?
Like any surgery, aortic valve replacement carries risks such as bleeding, infection, blood clots, abnormal heart rhythms, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. The surgeon will discuss the risks before the procedure.

Can transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) be an alternative to traditional open-heart surgery?
Yes, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is an alternative minimally invasive procedure compared to traditional open-heart surgery in select cases, particularly for individuals who are at higher risk for surgery.

Can aortic valve replacement be performed through a minimally invasive approach?
Yes, in certain cases, aortic valve replacement can be performed by a minimally invasive approach, using smaller incisions and specialized surgical techniques. This approach may result in faster recovery and fewer complications.

Can aortic valve replacement be done without removing the entire valve?
In some cases, aortic valve repair techniques may be used to preserve the patient's own valve tissue instead of complete valve replacement. This approach is determined by the specific condition and the expertise of the surgeon.

Can aortic valve replacement surgery be combined with other cardiac procedures?
Yes, aortic valve replacement surgery can be combined with other cardiac procedures like coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or mitral valve repair or replacement, depending on the individual's needs and the surgeon's recommendations.

Can I live a normal life after aortic valve replacement?
Yes, with proper post-operative care and adherence to medical advice, many individuals can live a normal and active life following aortic valve replacement. Regular follow-up visits with the cardiac surgeon are important to monitor the valve function.

Will I need to take medication after aortic valve replacement?
After aortic valve replacement, you may need to take medications such as blood thinners (for mechanical valves), medications to control blood pressure or prevent infection, and sometimes medications for heart function support.

Can aortic valve disease recur after replacement surgery?
In general, aortic valve disease does not recur after successful replacement surgery. However, other heart conditions or complications may arise, requiring ongoing monitoring and management.

Can aortic valve replacement be performed in older adults?
Aortic valve replacement can be performed in older adults, and age alone is not a barrier to surgery. The decision depends on the overall health status of the individual and a thorough evaluation by the healthcare team.

Can aortic valve replacement be performed in children or young adults?
Yes, aortic valve replacement can be performed in children and young adults with aortic valve conditions. The timing and type of replacement will be determined by the specific condition and the expertise of the pediatric cardiac surgeon.

Can aortic valve replacement improve quality of life?
Yes, for individuals with symptoms and limitations caused by aortic valve disease, aortic valve replacement can significantly improve quality of life by restoring normal heart function and relieving symptoms.

Can pregnancy be considered after aortic valve replacement?
Pregnancy after aortic valve replacement is possible, but it requires careful evaluation and counseling by a healthcare team experienced in managing cardiac conditions during pregnancy. Close monitoring throughout pregnancy is necessary.

Can aortic valve replacement affect exercise capacity?
In most cases, aortic valve replacement can improve exercise capacity by correcting the underlying valve disease and improving heart function. It is important to discuss exercise guidelines and limitations with the cardiac surgeon.

Can aortic valve replacement be performed in individuals with other heart conditions?
Aortic valve replacement can be performed in individuals with other heart conditions, but additional heart conditions may affect the overall treatment plan. A comprehensive evaluation by the healthcare team is necessary.

Can aortic valve replacement prevent further damage to the heart?
Yes, aortic valve replacement helps restore normal blood flow and prevents further damage to the heart caused by untreated aortic valve disease, reducing the risk of complications and improving long-term outcomes.

Can aortic valve replacement be performed with minimally invasive techniques in high-risk patients?
Yes, for high-risk patients who are not suitable candidates for traditional open-heart surgery, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is an option that can be considered, depending on individual factors and eligibility criteria.

Can aortic valve replacement be performed if other comorbidities are present?
The decision to perform aortic valve replacement in the presence of other comorbidities depends on the specific conditions, their severity, and the overall health status of the individual. A complete evaluation and discussion with the healthcare team are necessary to determine the best approach.

Review

Reviewed by Dr. Dinesh Chandra, Principal Consultant, Cardiac Surgery (CTVS) on 10-Apr-2024.