Valve Repair Surgery is an open-heart procedure to fix a poorly functioning heart valve, often without the need for mechanical or biologic parts. Possible techniques used during valve repair include removal of calcium deposits, the separation of fused valve leaflets (commissurotomy), removal of sections of baggy or weakened valve leaflets (resection) or patching valve leaflet holes or tears.

Sometimes a mechanical (synthetic/man-made) ring - often called an "annuloplasty ring" - may be necessary to reshape and tighten an enlarged and regurgitant valve opening.

Why is the doctor performing this surgery?

To repair a poorly functioning heart valve. Properly functioning heart valves are essential to direct the flow of the blood thru the heart, and to maintain a normal workload for the heart. The most common heart valve surgically repaired is the mitral valve. The tricuspid and aortic valves may also be repaired.

Usually, valve repair or replacement requires open heart surgery and placing the patient on a bypass machine.

Where is the surgery performed?

In the Operating Room (OR), under general anesthesia.

How long does this surgery take?

The length of time surgery takes will depend on the valve being repaired, the repair that must be done, the patient's underlying medical condition, etc, but a good estimate is 2-4 hours.

Related Articles Within Our "Healthy Living" Section
Heart Valve Problems
Understanding Heart Valves
Heart Valve Surgery

10/24/008