Overview of the Condition

What is Heart Valve Disease?

Heart valve disease occurs when one or more heart valves do not work properly, affecting normal blood flow through the heart. This can make the heart work harder and may become serious if untreated. Treatment may include surgery or minimally invasive procedures. The incidence of heart valve disease in India is 25%, and if left untreated it can lead to serious complications.

Who is Commonly Affected?

• Older adults
• Men (for certain valve diseases)
• Smokers
• People with diabetes or high blood pressure
• Individuals with unhealthy diet or low physical activity
• People who have received chest radiation treatment
• Patients with a pacemaker or defibrillator (ICD)

Common Causes

• Rheumatic fever after untreated throat infection
• Heart attack or heart failure
• High blood pressure
• Heart valve defects present from birth
• Age-related valve damage or calcium buildup
• Enlargement of the aorta
• Heart infections

Signs and Symptoms

• Tiredness or fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
• Swelling in the feet, ankles, or abdomen
• Weakness or dizziness
• Sudden weight gain
• Chest pain during activity

Procedure Overview and Preparation

What is MICS and Why is it Done?

MICS is a type of heart surgery performed through small cuts in the chest without opening the breastbone. It is used to treat certain heart conditions and usually results in less pain and faster recovery compared with open-heart surgery.

Mainly Used For Treating

• Heart valve disease
• Certain heart rhythm problems such as atrial fibrillation
• Holes or defects in the heart
• Heart tumours and other structural heart conditions

Before the Procedure

• Follow your doctor's instructions about eating, drinking, and taking medicines
• Inform your healthcare team about all medicines and allergies
• Bring comfortable clothing and personal care items if needed
• Do not wear jewellery, contact lenses, dentures, eyeglasses, or nail polish during surgery
• Hair around the surgery area may be shaved
• Skin will be cleaned with a special solution to reduce the risk of infection

Step-by-Step

• Small cuts are made on the side of the chest
• Special surgical tools are inserted between the ribs to reach the heart
• The surgeon repairs or treats the heart condition
• The incisions are then closed with stitches

Time Required

4 to 6 hours.

Risks, Benefits and Hospital Stay

Risks and Complications

• Bleeding
• Heart attack
• Infection
• Irregular heartbeat
• Stroke
• Rarely, death

Benefits and Expected Outcomes

• Less blood loss
• Lower risk of infection
• Less pain
• Shorter hospital stay
• Faster recovery and return to normal activities
• Smaller scars

Duration of Hospital Stay

Few days.

Recovery, Lifestyle and Follow-up

Recovery and Aftercare

• Feeling tired for a few weeks after surgery is common
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for several weeks
• Follow your doctor's advice about driving, exercise, and returning to work

Recovery Timeline

2 to 3 weeks.

Diet

• Stop smoking
• Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in salt and unhealthy fats

Long-Term Care

• Exercise regularly as advised by your doctor
• Maintain a healthy body weight

Follow-up

• Cardiac rehabilitation may be advised
• Regular follow-up visits are important
• Check-ups are usually done after one month and then yearly

Myths vs Facts

Frequently Asked Questions