Aortic valve replacement surgery is a critical procedure for patients with severe heart valve disease, offering a chance for improved health and extended life. Understanding the surgery, recovery process, and potential outcomes can help patients make informed decisions about their treatment options.
What is Aortic Valve Replacement?
Aortic valve replacement (AVR) is a surgical procedure to replace a diseased or damaged aortic valve with a healthy one.1 The aortic valve is one of four valves in the heart that controls blood flow. When the aortic valve becomes narrowed or leaky, it can cause a number of problems, including chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. AVR is a major surgery, but it is often the best option for people with severe aortic valve disease.
There are two main types of AVR: surgical AVR and transcatheter AVR (TAVR). Surgical AVR is the traditional method of AVR, and it involves opening the chest and replacing the aortic valve with a new one. TAVR is a newer, less invasive procedure that can be performed through a small incision in the leg. TAVR is typically used for people who are at high risk for surgical AVR.
Learn About Aortic Valve Replacement
Before undergoing AVR, patients will typically undergo a number of tests, including an echocardiogram, a cardiac catheterization, and a blood test. These tests will help the doctor to determine the severity of the aortic valve disease and to choose the best type of AVR for the patient.
AVR is a major surgery, and it carries a number of risks, including bleeding, infection, and stroke. However, the success rate of AVR is very high, and most people who undergo the procedure experience significant improvement in their symptoms.
Recovery: What to Expect
After AVR, patients will typically stay in the hospital for several days. During this time, they will be monitored closely for any complications. Once they are discharged from the hospital, patients will need to follow a strict recovery plan, which may include taking medication, attending physical therapy, and avoiding strenuous activity.2
The recovery time from AVR varies from person to person, but most people are able to return to their normal activities within a few months. However, it is important to note that AVR is a major surgery, and it is important to follow the doctor’s instructions carefully during the recovery period.
Learn More
If you are interested in learning more about aortic valve replacement, there are a number of resources available online. You can start by visiting the websites of the American Heart Association and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. You can also talk to your doctor or a cardiologist about AVR.