Aortic Valve Repair, Replacement and Surgery

Aortic valve surgery is usually done on patients who have a leaking aortic valve. In many cases, surgery to repair, or replace, the existing valve is the only option. The faulty valve, in severe cases, is not functioning properly and in is allowing blood to regurgitate. When talking about aortic valve repair, replacement and surgery there are a few options. First off, the surgery could consist of repairing an already existing valve. This will most often consist of a surgeon reinforcing the aortic valve to ensure that is working correctly. Reinforcing the valve will give it the strength it needs to open fully or close completely. The next option is aortic valve replacement. The valve will either be replaced with an artificial valve or a valve made out of donated human tissue or animal tissue. The doctor will make the call on which kind of valve replacement is right for your situation.
Aortic Valve Repair

* Repair of the structural support. This is when the surgeon will shorten the cords that support the valves. When theses valves are shorter it will allow the aortic valve to close completely.
* Reshaping is where the aortic valve is cut and then sewn back together in a new shape. Reshaping the aortic valve will allow it function properly. When the valve becomes misshaped it cab have difficulty regulating blood flow.

Aortic Valve Replacement

* A mechanical valve will be put in place of your natural aortic valve. These mechanical valves are made out of polymers or metals. The mechanical valves are very safe and will ideally last for a lifetime.
* Using human donated tissue or animal tissue is a permanent solution to a faulty aortic valve. The tissue will be used in place of the pre-existing aortic valve. Surgery that involves using tissue is very effective at first but gradually becomes weaker and weaker as time goes by. The aortic valve will need to be replaced every 10 to 20 years if tissue is used.
* A small incision of 3 or 4 inches will be made on the chest. The incision will act as the entry point that the surgeon will use in order to insert the new aortic valve.

Aortic valve repair, replacement and surgery should be a serious consideration if your aortic valve is leaking or not functioning properly otherwise. Make sure to work with a qualified surgeon in order to get the best, most effective results.