Overview

Aortic valve repair and aortic valve replacement are procedures to treat a damaged or diseased aortic valve.

The aortic valve is one of four valves that control blood flow in the heart. It separates the lower left heart chamber (left ventricle) and the body’s main artery (aorta).

When the heart squeezes (contracts), the aortic valve opens and lets blood flow from the left ventricle into the aorta. When the heart relaxes, the aortic valve closes to prevent blood from moving backward.

A diseased or damaged aortic valve can interfere with blood flow and force the heart to work harder to send blood to the rest of the body.

Aortic valve repair or aortic valve replacement can improve blood flow, reduce symptoms of heart valve disease and prolong life.

Why it’s Done

Aortic valve repair and aortic valve replacement are done to treat aortic valve disease. Mild aortic valve disease without symptoms may only require frequent health checkups. But most aortic valve conditions are mechanical problems that eventually require surgery to reduce symptoms and the risk of complications, such as heart failure, heart attack, stroke or death due to sudden cardiac arrest.

Results

After aortic valve repair or replacement surgery, your health care provider can tell you when you can return to daily activities, such as working, driving and exercise.

You’ll typically need regular health checkups to monitor your heart condition and to check for complications, such as valve failure. Imaging tests may be done to make sure the aortic valve is working correctly.

After heart valve surgery, it’s important to follow a heart-healthy lifestyle. Your health care provider may recommend these lifestyle changes:

  • Getting regular exercise
  • Controlling weight
  • Eating a healthy diet
  • Managing stress
  • Not smoking

Your health care provider may also suggest enrolling in a program of education and exercise — called cardiac rehabilitation — to improve your overall health and help you recover after aortic valve surgery.

Consult a Cardiologist in India

Cost of aortic Valve replacement and repair in India