Medically Reviewed by Dr. Parishwanath Patil S,Cardio Vascular Thoracic
Written by KLE Editorial Contributors
Aortic valve repair or replacement is a critical heart procedure performed when the aortic valve becomes damaged or narrowed. Aortic valve are the valve that controls blood flow from the heart to the body. This procedure helps restore normal blood flow, improve heart function and reduce symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath and fatigue.
Let’s explore what this surgery involves, when it is needed, how it helps and what to expect during recovery.
The aortic valve plays a key role in directing blood from the left ventricle to the aorta. Over time or due to congenital issues, this valve may:
When the valve doesn’t function properly, it puts pressure on the heart and reduces oxygen-rich blood supply to the body that causes symptoms like breathlessness, fatigue, dizziness and chest discomfort.
Aortic valve repair involves correcting structural issues in the valve without replacing it. This approach is preferred for younger patients or those with less damaged valves.
Techniques used:
Repair is less commonly performed than replacement but can preserve natural valve function and reduce the need for lifelong blood thinners.
When the valve is too damaged to repair, aortic valve replacement becomes necessary. In this surgery, the faulty valve is replaced with:
Replacement can be done through:
| Feature | Aortic Valve Repair | Aortic Valve Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Preserves natural valve | Yes | No |
| Use of an artificial valve | No | Yes (mechanical or tissue) |
| Need for blood thinners | Rarely | Yes (especially mechanical) |
| Durability | Depends on the condition | Mechanical: long-lasting, Biological: 10–20 years |
| Preferred for | Select patients with less valve damage | Moderate to severe valve disease |
Doctors may recommend aortic valve replacement if:
Even if you're asymptomatic, severe valve disease with impaired heart function often requires surgery to prevent heart failure.
Aortic valve surgery is done either to remove or repair the faulty valve and restore healthy blood flow. It is usually performed under general anesthesia and takes several hours.
Types of Aortic Valve Surgery:
Your cardiac surgeon will determine the most suitable approach based on your health, age and valve condition.
As with any heart surgery, aortic valve repair or replacement carries certain risks:
These complications are rare and are minimised with proper pre-surgical evaluation and post-operative care.
Recovery from aortic valve surgery depends on the type of surgery, your health conditions and doctor's expertise. In general:
Avoid heavy weight lifting or strenuous activity during recovery and follow your doctor’s advice on diet, exercise and medications.
Life expectancy after valve repair or replacement has significantly improved due to modern surgical techniques. Patients with successful repair often have near-normal life expectancy.
Get in Touch with a Doctor
Your cardiologist will evaluate the severity of your valve damage, symptoms and heart function through imaging tests and clinical assessment. Repair is preferred when feasible but replacement is needed for severely damaged or calcified valves.
Aortic valve repair is preferred when possible as it preserves the natural valve and may reduce the need for lifelong medication. However, replacement is often necessary in severe cases or when repair is not viable.
Yes, aortic valve replacement is considered major heart surgery. It may involve open-heart surgery or a minimally invasive approach like TAVR, depending on your condition and risk profile.
Biological (tissue) valves typically last 10–20 years, while mechanical valves can last longer but require lifelong blood thinners. Durability depends on valve type, patient age, and lifestyle factors.
Recovery after aortic valve surgery usually takes 6 to 12 weeks. Minimally invasive procedures may result in shorter recovery times. Cardiac rehab and follow-up care are important for full recovery.
Yes, TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement) is available in India at major cardiac centers. It is usually recommended for patients who are at high risk for traditional open-heart surgery.
Most patients can return to normal activities and enjoy a good quality of life after recovery from aortic valve surgery. Regular follow-ups and a heart-healthy lifestyle are essential for long-term success.
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