Aortic Valve Replacement

Valve replacement surgery is considered a major cardiac procedure. In an Aortic Valve Replacement Procedure, the aortic valve is replaced when it is not functioning properly and the patient needs a new healthy one.

A new valve, biological (tissue-based) or artificial is transplanted during the procedure repairing the blood flow to and from the heart.

One may need an aortic valve replacement for several reasons; however, there are two main causes to undergo this surgery. The first is when the blood flow is constricted across a narrowed heart valve (Aortic stenosis) and the second is when the blood flow is leaking back into heart (Aortic Valve Regurgitation).

Although an aortic valve replacement can be done in a minimally invasive procedure, using a catheter and thus evading open heart surgery, this is mainly done with easier cases or when there is real danger in open heart surgery.

In a traditional aortic valve replacement surgery, an incision is made along the chest and then the sternum is split open. This is followed by the patient being connected to bypass machinery for the heart and lungs (breathing for the patient and pumping the blood), allowing the surgeon to operate and replace the valve in a clean and clear environment. Once this is completed, the surgeon removes the old valve and sews the new one into place, making sure that there are no problems with the blood flow. Once this is certain, the patient is removed from the automatic machinery and the chest is closed up.

Following the operation, the patient is usually kept in an intensive care unit for 1-3 days and in the hospital for another 10-14 days. Full recovery from this procedure is expected within a full year as specific behavioral instructions will be provided by the physician.

Valve Replacement Abroad

When exploring the option of heart surgery abroad, you want to be in reliable hands and undergo this surgery with maximum confidence. TicketMed only works with the leading cardiac surgeons and will provide you with the serenity you need for this kind of operation. We will be happy to assist you in exploring and a planning cardiac surgery abroad, simply contact us or ask for a quote.