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Home > Heart Valve Replacement Surgery

Overview

Published with the inputs from Dr Harilal V Nambiar, Senior Consultant,  Cardiovascular Thoracic Surgery, Baby Memorial Hospitals- Kozhikode

Heart valve replacement surgery is performed when one or more of the heart’s valves are damaged and cannot be repaired. The surgery involves removing the diseased valve and replacing it with an artificial (prosthetic) or biological valve. This procedure restores normal blood flow through the heart, improves symptoms, and helps prevent complications such as heart failure.

What is heart valve replacement surgery?

It is a surgical procedure to replace a diseased heart valve that no longer opens or closes properly. Depending on the patient’s condition, surgeons may replace the aortic, mitral, tricuspid, or pulmonary valve.

Why is heart valve replacement needed?

Valve replacement is recommended for patients with:

  • Severe valve narrowing (stenosis)
  • Severe valve leakage (regurgitation/insufficiency)
  • Valve damage due to infection (endocarditis)
  • Congenital valve defects

Untreated valve disease can cause heart failure, arrhythmias, stroke, or even death.

What types of valves are used in replacement surgery?
  • Mechanical valves: Made of durable materials, they last a lifetime but require lifelong blood-thinning medications.
  • Biological (tissue) valves: Made from animal tissue, they don’t usually require long-term blood thinners but may wear out over 10–20 years.
  • Transcatheter valves (TAVR/TAVI): A minimally invasive option for certain patients, especially in aortic valve disease.
How is the surgery performed?
  • Open-heart surgery: Traditional method with an incision in the chest and use of a heart-lung machine.
  • Minimally invasive surgery: Smaller incisions, less pain, and quicker recovery in selected patients.
  • Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR): Performed through a catheter inserted into a blood vessel, without opening the chest.
Is heart valve replacement surgery safe?

Yes. It is a standard, life-saving surgery with very good success rates. Risks include bleeding, infection, stroke, blood clots, or valve-related complications. Outcomes are best when performed at specialized heart centers.

What is recovery like after valve replacement?

Hospital stay is usually 5–7 days for open surgery and shorter for minimally invasive or TAVR. Most patients resume light activities within 4–6 weeks and full recovery may take 2–3 months. Cardiac rehabilitation helps improve recovery and long-term heart health.

How long do artificial heart valves last?
  • Mechanical valves: Designed to last a lifetime but require lifelong anticoagulation.
  • Tissue valves: Last 10–20 years on average and may eventually need replacement.

Longevity depends on age, lifestyle, and medical conditions.

What lifestyle changes are needed after surgery?
  • Taking prescribed medications regularly
  • Following a heart-healthy diet
  • Engaging in moderate exercise as recommended
  • Attending regular follow-ups and valve checkups
  • Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol use
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If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with severe heart valve disease, our Cardiac Surgery Team provides advanced options, including mechanical, biological, and minimally invasive valve replacements.

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