Aortic valve repair

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  Aortic regurgitation illustration

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  Aortic valve preoperative

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  Aortic valve postoperative

Aortic Valve Repair

Aortic valve repair is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting dysfunctions of the aortic valve, which is one of the four main valves in the heart. This procedure is typically performed to treat conditions such as aortic regurgitation or aortic stenosis, where the valve does not function properly, leading to compromised blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body.

Indications

Aortic valve repair is indicated in patients with:

• Aortic regurgitation: A condition where the aortic valve does not close properly, causing blood to flow backward into the left ventricle.
• Aortic stenosis: A narrowing of the aortic valve opening, which restricts blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta.
• Congenital heart defects: Such as a bicuspid aortic valve, where the valve has only two leaflets instead of the normal three.

Surgical Techniques

Aortic valve repair can be performed using various techniques, depending on the underlying pathology:

• Leaflet repair: Involves reshaping or trimming the valve leaflets to ensure proper closure.
• Annuloplasty: A ring-like device is used to reshape or reinforce the valve annulus, the ring-like structure that supports the valve leaflets.
• Commissurotomy: Used primarily for aortic stenosis, this technique involves cutting the fused commissures to widen the valve opening.
• Decalcification: Removal of calcium deposits from the valve leaflets to improve their flexibility and function.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Aortic valve repair offers several advantages over aortic valve replacement:

• Preservation of native valve: Retaining the patient's own valve can lead to better long-term outcomes and fewer complications.
• Avoidance of anticoagulation therapy: Unlike mechanical valve replacements, repaired valves typically do not require lifelong anticoagulation therapy.
• Reduced risk of infection: There is a lower risk of endocarditis compared to prosthetic valves.

However, aortic valve repair may not be suitable for all patients, particularly those with severely damaged or calcified valves.

Postoperative Care

After aortic valve repair, patients typically require close monitoring in a cardiac intensive care unit. Postoperative care includes:

• Monitoring for complications: Such as bleeding, infection, or arrhythmias.
• Echocardiography: To assess valve function and ensure successful repair.
• Rehabilitation: Cardiac rehabilitation programs to aid recovery and improve cardiovascular health.

Prognosis

The prognosis after aortic valve repair is generally favorable, with many patients experiencing significant improvement in symptoms and quality of life. Long-term outcomes depend on the underlying condition, the success of the repair, and the presence of any comorbidities.

Related Pages

• Aortic valve replacement
• Heart valve surgery
• Cardiothoracic surgery
• Congenital heart disease