Heart Valve Repair Surgery

Before undergoing heart valve repair surgery, patients undergo a thorough medical evaluation to assess the severity of valve disease and overall heart function. Diagnostic tests such as echocardiography, ECG, chest X-rays, and blood tests are performed to guide treatment planning. In some cases, coronary angiography may also be required to evaluate associated coronary artery disease. Doctors review the patient’s medical history, including conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or lung disease, to minimize surgical risks. Patients are advised to follow preoperative instructions, including fasting for several hours before surgery and adjusting medications under medical supervision. Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and maintaining a balanced diet are recommended to improve surgical outcomes. Counselling is provided to help patients understand the procedure and recovery process.

On the day of surgery, the patient is taken to the operating room where general anaesthesia is administered, ensuring a pain-free and unconscious state. A breathing tube is inserted, and the patient is connected to a ventilator. In traditional valve repair surgery, the surgeon makes an incision in the chest and opens the breastbone to access the heart. A heart-lung machine is typically used to maintain blood circulation while the heart is temporarily stopped. The surgeon then repairs the valve using techniques such as reshaping valve leaflets, removing excess tissue, or placing an annuloplasty ring to strengthen the valve. In minimally invasive or robotic approaches, smaller incisions are used, resulting in less trauma and faster recovery. Once the repair is complete, the heart is restarted, and the chest is closed carefully.

After heart valve repair surgery, patients are closely monitored in the intensive care unit for the first 24 to 48 hours. 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 aspects of post-operative recovery. Patients are encouraged to begin gentle movement within a few days to improve circulation and prevent complications. Medications are prescribed to support heart function and prevent complications. The hospital stay typically ranges from 4 to 7 days, depending on the patient’s recovery progress and overall condition.