Heart valves play a vital role in directing blood flow through the heart’s chambers and into the body. When one or more of these valves become diseased or damaged, they can affect how efficiently the heart functions, leading to symptoms like fatigue, breathlessness, chest discomfort, or even heart failure. Heart valve repair and replacement surgery is a critical intervention that can restore normal heart function and significantly improve quality of life.
In Kota, Dr. Palkesh Agrawal, an experienced Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeon, offers advanced surgical solutions for patients with valve disease, using modern techniques that prioritise precision, safety and long-term outcomes.
Understanding Heart Valve Disease
The heart has four valves – mitral, aortic, tricuspid, and pulmonary. These valves open and close to ensure blood flows in the correct direction. When a valve doesn’t function properly, it may lead to:
- Stenosis – the valve becomes narrowed and restricts blood flow
- Regurgitation (or insufficiency) – the valve does not close properly, causing blood to leak backwards
- Prolapse – the valve bulges backwards, leading to improper closure
Valve issues can be caused by age-related changes, infections (such as rheumatic fever or endocarditis), congenital defects, or other heart conditions.
When is Valve Surgery Needed?
Valve surgery is typically recommended when the damage causes:
- Shortness of breath during exertion or at rest
- Chest pain or palpitations
- Fainting episodes
- Swelling in the legs or abdomen
- Heart enlargement or reduced heart function seen on tests
Early diagnosis and timely surgical intervention can prevent complications such as heart failure, stroke, or sudden cardiac arrest.
Types of Valve Surgery
Depending on the severity of the valve damage, two main surgical options are available.
1. Valve Repair
In selected cases, especially with the mitral and tricuspid valves, repair may be possible. This involves techniques such as:
- Reshaping or reconstructing valve leaflets
- Removing excess tissue causing prolapse
- Reinforcing the valve with a ring (annuloplasty)
- Correcting congenital abnormalities
Repair is preferred when feasible, as it preserves the natural valve, reduces the risk of long-term complications, and often eliminates the need for lifelong blood-thinning medication.
2. Valve Replacement
If repair is not possible, the damaged valve is replaced with a new one. Two types of valves are used:
- Mechanical valves – made from durable materials like titanium or carbon; long-lasting but require lifelong anticoagulation.
- Biological valves – made from human or animal tissue; may not last as long, but usually do not require long-term blood thinners.
The choice depends on the patient’s age, lifestyle, medical history, and personal preferences.
The Surgical Procedure
Valve surgery is usually performed under general anaesthesia and may involve open-heart surgery or a minimally invasive approach, depending on the patient’s condition and the valve involved.
- Preoperative evaluation includes echocardiography, ECG, chest X-ray, and blood tests.
- Surgery involves accessing the heart, repairing or replacing the valve, and ensuring normal blood flow.
- Postoperative care in the ICU allows for close monitoring of heart function, breathing, and recovery.
Hospital stay typically lasts 5 to 7 days, followed by a few weeks of recovery at home. A structured cardiac rehabilitation programme may be recommended for long-term heart health.
Risks and Considerations
Valve surgery is a highly successful and commonly performed procedure, but like all surgeries, it carries certain risks such as:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Irregular heart rhythms
- Stroke
- Valve dysfunction (rare in repaired or replaced valves)
Regular follow-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle changes can minimise these risks and ensure the best outcomes.
Life After Valve Surgery
With successful valve repair or replacement, most patients experience:
- Improved breathing and energy levels
- Enhanced exercise capacity
- Relief from fatigue and swelling
- Better heart function and reduced hospitalisation
Patients with mechanical valves will need regular INR monitoring and anticoagulant medication, while those with biological valves will require periodic valve checks and may eventually need another surgery, depending on age and valve wear.
Consult an Expert Heart Surgeon in Kota
If you or your loved one has been diagnosed with a heart valve disorder, timely surgical evaluation can make all the difference.
Dr. Palkesh Agrawal, a renowned Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeon in Kota, is dedicated to providing advanced and personalised care for heart valve conditions. With a patient-first approach and modern surgical expertise, Dr. Agrawal ensures every patient receives the most suitable and effective treatment.
Book your consultation today and take the first step towards a healthier circulatory system.
