Aortic Valve Replacement

Before undergoing aortic valve replacement, patients are evaluated through comprehensive diagnostic tests to assess heart function and confirm the severity of valve disease. These tests typically include echocardiography, ECG, CT scans, and blood investigations. In some cases, coronary angiography is also performed to check for associated coronary artery disease. Doctors review the patient's medical history, including conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or kidney disease, to minimize surgical risks. Patients are advised to stop smoking, follow a heart-healthy diet, and manage existing health conditions effectively before surgery. Certain medications, particularly blood thinners, may need to be adjusted. Fasting is required for several hours prior to the procedure, and counseling is provided to prepare the patient both physically and mentally.

On the day of surgery, the patient is taken to the operating room where general anaesthesia is administered to ensure a pain-free and unconscious state. A breathing tube is inserted, and the patient is connected to a ventilator. In traditional open-heart AVR, the surgeon makes an incision in the chest and accesses the heart by opening the breastbone. A heart-lung machine is used to maintain blood circulation while the heart is temporarily stopped. The damaged aortic valve is removed and replaced with a new artificial or biological valve. Once the new valve is securely in place, the heart is restarted, and the incision is closed. In minimally invasive procedures like TAVR, a catheter is inserted through a blood vessel and guided to the heart, and the new valve is delivered through the catheter without the need for open surgery.

After the procedure, patients are moved to the intensive care unit for close monitoring. Vital signs, heart rhythm, and oxygen levels are continuously observed to ensure stability. Patients may initially require ventilator support until they can breathe independently. Pain management, infection prevention, and wound care are essential components of recovery. Patients are encouraged to start gentle movement within a few days to improve circulation and prevent complications. Medications are prescribed to prevent blood clots and support heart function, especially in patients with mechanical valves who may require long-term anticoagulation therapy. The hospital stay typically ranges from 5 to 7 days, depending on the patient's recovery and the type of procedure performed.