Heart Valve Surgery

Heart valve surgery is a procedure that aims to repair or replace damaged heart valves. Heart valves are responsible for regulating the flow of blood within the heart and throughout the body, and any damage or malfunction can lead to serious health problems. At Sterling Hospitals, our team of skilled cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons are experienced in performing heart valve surgery, and are dedicated to providing the highest level of care to our patients. 

The three main types of valve disease are stenosis, regurgitation, and prolapse. 

• Stenosis is a condition where the heart valve becomes narrowed, which restricts blood flow from the heart. This can cause the heart to work harder, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, chest pain, and shortness of breath.  
• Regurgitation, on the other hand, is a condition where the valve fails to close properly, leading to blood flowing back into the heart. This can cause symptoms such as palpitations, fatigue, and shortness of breath.  
• Prolapse is a condition where the valve bulges into the left atrium, causing a leak or regurgitation of blood. This can cause symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, and fatigue. 

Before undergoing heart valve surgery, patients will undergo a thorough evaluation to determine the extent of the valve damage and the most appropriate course of treatment. This may include imaging tests such as echocardiography, as well as blood tests and other diagnostic procedures. 

There are several types of heart valve surgery, including: 

• Valve repair: This involves repairing the damaged valve using sutures, patches, or other techniques. Valve repair is often preferred over valve replacement, as it preserves the patient's own valve and can offer a more natural outcome. 
• Valve replacement: This involves removing the damaged valve and replacing it with a new valve. The replacement valve may be made of biological material (such as animal tissue) or mechanical material (such as metal). 
• Transcatheter valve replacement: This is a minimally invasive procedure in which a new valve is inserted through a catheter, typically through the groin or chest. This procedure is often recommended for patients who are considered high-risk for traditional valve replacement surgery. 

After heart valve surgery, patients will typically spend several days in the hospital for monitoring and recovery. It is important to follow the doctor's instructions for post-operative care, including taking medications as prescribed, monitoring for any signs of complications, and following a healthy diet and exercise plan. 

At Sterling Hospitals, our team of skilled surgeons and medical staff are committed to providing the highest level of care to our patients. We offer state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, as well as a comprehensive range of services to support our patients throughout their heart valve surgery journey.