Heart Valve Repair Surgery

Heart Valve Repair Surgery, also known as valvuloplasty, is a medical procedure aimed at correcting damaged or dysfunctional heart valves. The heart valves, including the mitral valve, tricuspid valve, aortic valve, and pulmonary valve, play a crucial role in regulating blood flow within the heart chambers.

During heart valve repair surgery, the surgeon may employ various techniques depending on the specific valve involved and the nature of the problem. These techniques may include:

1. **Valvuloplasty**: This involves repairing a valve by reshaping, reconstructing, or reinforcing its existing structure to improve its function.

2. **Annuloplasty**: This procedure involves repairing or tightening the ring-like structure (annulus) around the valve to reduce leakage.

3. **Commissurotomy**: This involves separating fused valve leaflets to improve valve opening and blood flow.

4. **Chordal Reconstruction**: In cases where the supporting structures (chordae tendineae) of the valve are damaged, they may be repaired or reconstructed to restore proper valve function.

5. **Leaflet Resection or Repair**: In cases of valve leaflet prolapse or flail, portions of the leaflets may be removed or repaired to improve valve closure.

The goal of heart valve repair surgery is to restore normal valve function, improve blood flow through the heart, and alleviate symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue. Compared to valve replacement surgery, valve repair surgery often preserves the patient's own tissue and avoids the need for long-term anticoagulation therapy.

Heart valve repair surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, and the specific surgical approach and techniques used depend on factors such as the patient's overall health, the severity of valve dysfunction, and the surgeon's expertise. Risks associated with the procedure include bleeding, infection, arrhythmias, and the possibility of the repair not being successful, necessitating further intervention.

After surgery, patients undergo a period of recovery in the hospital, followed by rehabilitation and close monitoring by healthcare providers. With successful valve repair, many patients experience significant improvement in symptoms and quality of life, allowing them to lead more active and fulfilling lives. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor valve function and overall cardiovascular health.