Aortic Value Replacement

Introduction

Blood is pumped through your heart in only one direction heart valves play a key role in this one-way blood flow, opening and closing with each heartbeat. Pressure changes on either side of the value cause them to open their flap-like doors at just the right time then close singly to prevent a backflow of blood.

An aortic valve replacement is a surgical procedure to implant a prosthetic valve in the place of a damaged aortic valve.

Cause Of Replacement

The value replacement is performed for constricted flow (Stenosis) or regurgitation when the valve opens too much.

Types Valve Replacement

The prosthetic valve may be either mechanical or biological.

Your doctor will be able to recommend the appropriate prosthesis.

Symptoms Of Valve Disease

1. Increased shortness of breath

2. Chest Pain

3. Swelling of the ankles and leg

4. Dizziness

5. Fainting

Diagonistic Test

To diagnose and determine treatment for your particular valve disease, your doctor will obtain a complete medical history, perform a through physical exam and order any or all of the following special diagnostic tests.

1. chest X-ray

2. Electrocardiogram (ECG)

3. Cardiac Catheterization (Coronary arteriogram)

Valve Replacement Surgery

Your surgeon will give you specific instruction on how to prepare for your surgery. The surgeon will begin by exposing the heart. An incision is made to divide the breast bone. After the heart is exposed, blood must be rerouted to a heart lung. This allow the blood to be pumped and oxygenated while the surgeon operated on the heart your surgeon can now replace the damaged valve (biological or metal).

Post - Operative Care

Once the surgery is completed, you will be taken to a post-operative or recovery unit where a nurse will monitor your recovery.

Expect to remain in the hospital for approximately five to seven days.