|  | Surgeries Operations | Open Heart Surgery

Definition of a Heart Valve Replacement

The heart has four sections and four valves. The right and left upper chambers are called the atrium, while the right and left bottom chambers are called ventricles. The valves are located between the atrium and ventricles and at the bottom of the ventricles. The purpose of the heart valves is to keep blood flowing in the right direction. When there is damage to one of these valves, you may need to have a valve replacement.

  1. Considerations

    • Heart valves may stop working correctly due to a birth defect, infections or changes that occur with age. When this happens, the valve may no longer open or shut correctly. This means that an inadequate amount of blood may not be pumped out of the heart, or the blood may be leaking back into the heart.

    Types

    • A damaged heart valve can be replaced by using tissue from another area of the body. It can also be replaced by a mechanical valve. There are pros and cons to both which should be discussed with a surgeon.

    Preparing for Heart Valve Replacement

    • The surgeon makes an incision in the chest. Tubes are placed in the heart to reroute the flow of blood from the heart and into a machine. This machine adds oxygen to the blood and then sends it back to the body. The machine takes over the work of the heart while the valve is being replaced.

    Procedure

    • The heart may be slowed or completely stopped during surgery. The damaged valve is completely removed and the prosthetic valve is then sewn in place. The procedure usually takes about three to five hours.

    Recovery

    • You will need to stay in an intensive care unit for a few days after surgery and it may take months to fully recover. Most patients lead a normal active life after valve replacement. You may need to take medication to prevent blood clots.

    Benefits

    • Heart valve replacement surgery can help to reduce or eliminate chest pain, shortness of breath and other symptoms you may have been experiencing. Visit the websites below for more information on the many heart valve operations available.

Open Heart Surgery - Related Articles