What is Aortic Valve Surgery?

It is performed if the aortic valve in the heart fails to function. This surgical procedure aortic valve surgery It is called. The valve is the valve that allows the aorta, the main artery coming out of the heart, to pump the blood coming out of the left ventricle of the heart. However, in some cases it may not work properly. This may cause blood to leak back or not be pumped sufficiently.

In Which Situations Is Aortic Valve Surgery Performed?

When it does not close completely, it can cause blood to leak back from the heart into the aorta. This condition is called “aortic valve insufficiency”. It can cause the heart to work harder and cause serious problems such as heart failure in the long run. Stenosis is a condition in which blood flow is restricted as a result of the valve surface area shrinking or hardening.

In this case, the heart has to work harder to pump blood through the narrowed valve. Over time, the heart muscle may thicken and the risk of heart failure may increase. When its wall weakens and widens, this condition is called an aortic aneurysm. An aneurysm means there is serious weakness in the area where it expands.

If the aneurysm is near the valve, aortic valve surgery It may also be required to repair the aneurysm. Connective tissue diseases, such as Marfan syndrome, can weaken its structure. It may increase the risk of aneurysm. In such diseases, the valve of the aorta may also be affected and surgical treatment may be required. In rare cases, infections (endocarditis) can cause damage to the aortic valve. Such infections may require surgery.

The type and necessity of surgery may vary depending on the patient's condition and the severity of the valve problem. Aortic valve surgery, It is usually for the purpose of repair or prosthetic (artificial) placement. The appropriate treatment method for each patient is evaluated by cardiologists.

What is the Aortic Valve Surgery Recovery Process?

Aortic valve surgery, You may spend the first few days in the hospital after surgery. During this process, the medical team will keep you under observation to monitor your general condition and post-operative complications. Postoperative pain is usually controlled. Pain is normal for the first few days, but medications are prescribed to make the patient feel comfortable.

In the early stages of the recovery process, physical activities may be restricted. Slowly, the process of standing up, walking, and relearning basic movements begins. Post-operative rehabilitation program is important. This will help you regain muscle strength and return to normal activities. It is important to follow a healthy eating plan.

A diet rich in protein, vitamins and minerals supports your healing process. You may need to make regular doctor appointments in the post-operative period. Your doctor monitors your recovery process. He will examine you at regular intervals to detect a possible complication early.

 Aortic valve surgery, Complications such as infection, bleeding, and stitch problems may be rare. However, it is among the situations that need to be taken into consideration. Each individual's recovery process is different, but generally you can return to daily activities within a few weeks. More intense physical activities and full recovery may take several months. It is necessary to follow your doctor's instructions and recommendations. In this way, you can manage the recovery process in the best way possible.