Heart Valve Replacement Surgery
Heart valve replacement surgery is a medical procedure used to repair or replace a damaged or diseased heart valve. Heart valves regulate blood flow through the heart, and when they do not open or close properly, the heart must work harder to pump blood. This surgery helps restore normal blood flow, relieve symptoms, and improve overall heart function and quality of life.
Heart valve replacement surgery is performed in a hospital by a specialized cardiac surgery team. Depending on the patient’s condition, the procedure may be done through traditional open-heart surgery or minimally invasive techniques, including catheter-based procedures such as transcatheter valve replacement. The replacement valve may be mechanical or made from biological tissue.
Why it’s done
Heart valve replacement surgery is recommended when a heart valve is severely damaged and cannot be effectively treated with medication or valve repair. A health care provider may suggest this surgery to:
Treat valve narrowing (stenosis) that restricts blood flow
Treat valve leakage (regurgitation) that allows blood to flow backward
Reduce strain on the heart and prevent heart failure
Improve blood circulation and oxygen delivery throughout the body
Relieve symptoms and improve daily functioning
Prevent life-threatening complications such as heart failure or stroke
You may need heart valve replacement surgery if you have any of the following signs and symptoms:
Shortness of breath, especially during activity or when lying down
Chest pain or discomfort
Fatigue or weakness
Swelling in the ankles, feet, or abdomen
Irregular or rapid heartbeat
Dizziness or fainting
Worsening symptoms despite medication
Heart valve replacement surgery can significantly improve symptoms and long-term outcomes when performed at the right time under expert medical care.