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To repair a heart valve, surgeons might:
- Patch holes in a valve
- Separate valve leaflets that have fused
- Replace the cords that support the valve
- Remove excess valve tissue so that the valve can close tightly
What is the best treatment for a heart valve disease?
O’HAIR: Researchers have discovered that most individuals with a mild leak in the valve are still alive five years after diagnosis. However, for those with a severe leak that goes untreated, survival drops way off, hovering around 60 percent surviving at five years.
How long can you live with heart valve disease?
Some of the problems that may develop are:
- Pericarditis (inflammation of the tissue surrounding the heart) Usually develops 6–12 months after radiation therapy May be short-term (acute) or chronic
- Premature coronary artery disease and atherosclerosis Usually develops 10–15 years after radiation therapy
- Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle)
What medications damage heart valves?
- Tricuspid valve. Located between the right atrium and the right ventricle
- Pulmonary valve. Located between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery
- Mitral valve. Located between the left atrium and the left ventricle
- Aortic valve. Located between the left ventricle and the aorta
What are the problems after heart valve replacement?
Can a faulty heart valve be treated?
You might eventually need heart valve surgery to repair or replace the diseased heart valve even if you don't have symptoms. If you need surgery for another heart condition, your doctor might repair or replace the diseased valve at the same time.
Can a heart valve be fixed without surgery?
While this condition can lead to serious health problems, it is treatable – even more so these days due to a minimally invasive procedure using the MitraClip. This FDA-approved device allows physicians to fix faulty heart valves without doing open heart surgery.
How can doctors treat faulty valves?
In many cases, your healthcare provider can do surgery or a minimally invasive procedure to repair or replace your heart valves, restoring normal function and allowing you to return to normal activities. The four valves in your heart make sure blood flows in only one direction through your heart.
Can heart valves be repaired?
In heart valve surgery, a surgeon repairs or replaces the damaged or diseased heart valve or valves. Many surgical approaches can be used to repair or replace heart valves, including open-heart surgery or minimally invasive heart surgery.
What is the average age for heart valve replacement?
Fact: Valve Replacement and Heart Bypass surgery (or a combination of the two) are the most common procedures in the “elderly.” Fact: More than 30% of the patients having heart valve surgery are over 70. Fact: More than 20% of heart valve surgical patients are over 75 years of age.
Is heart valve replacement a big surgery?
An aortic valve replacement is a big operation and, like any type of surgery, carries a risk of complications. Some of the main risks of an aortic valve replacement include: wound, lung, bladder or heart valve infections. blood clots.
Can a heart valve be replaced without open heart surgery?
Answer: Yes, there's a minimally invasive procedure that uses a catheter -- TAVR -- that may be a better choice for some people who are at moderate to high risk of complications from open heart surgery. TAVR stands for transcatheter aortic valve replacement.
Is there medication for heart valves?
Can I take medications instead of having a valve procedure? Although medications can serve a very important purpose, there is no medication that will stop a valve from leaking. Likewise, there's no medication that will open a valve that's too constricted.
What is the success rate of heart valve replacement surgery?
Pooled data from 85 studies estimated that 89.7% of people survived for two years after surgery, 78.4% at five years, 57.0% at 10 years, 39.7% at 15 years, and 24.7% at 20 years. Subgroup analysis showed that five-year survival declined with increasing patient age (from 83.7% in under-65s to 52.5% for those over 85).
Is heart valve surgery risky?
An aortic valve replacement is a major operation and occasionally the complications can be fatal. Overall, the risk of dying as a result of the procedure is estimated to be 2%. But this risk is far lower than the risk associated with leaving severe aortic disease untreated.
Is valve repair better than replacement?
Replacing it can actually decrease your heart function. Not only does a repair let you keep your own valve, but it improves survival rates and carries a lower risk of: Bleeding. Thromboembolism, which is a blood clot in a vein or artery.
How serious is a heart valve problem?
Many people live long and healthy lives and never realize they have a mild valve problem. However, left untreated, advanced valve disease can cause heart failure, stroke, blood clots or death due to sudden cardiac arrest.
What to write down for a heart valve appointment?
Write down your symptoms, including any that seem unrelated to heart valve disease. Write down key personal information, including a family history of heart disease , and any major stresses or recent life changes.
What kind of doctor is best for heart valve disease?
A doctor trained in heart disease (cardiologist) will provide your care. If you have heart valve disease, consider being evaluated and treated at a medical center with a multidisciplinary team of doctors and medical staff trained and experienced in evaluating and treating heart valve disease.
What test is used to diagnose heart valve disease?
In a physical examination, your doctor will likely listen for a heart murmur, as this can be a sign of a heart valve condition. Your doctor may order several tests to diagnose your condition. Tests may include: Echocardiography.
What is robot assisted heart surgery?
In some medical centers, doctors may perform robot-assisted heart surgery, a type of minimally invasive heart surgery in which surgeons use robotic instruments to conduct the procedure. Doctors may also use less invasive procedures to repair certain valves using long, thin tubes (catheters) in some people.
What is the best test to diagnose a heart condition?
Your doctor may order several tests to diagnose your condition. Tests may include: Echocardiography. In this test, sound waves directed at your heart from a wandlike device (transducer) held on your chest produce video images of your heart in motion. This test assesses the structure of your heart, the heart valves and the blood flow ...
What tests are used to measure heart rate?
Exercise tests or stress tests. Different exercise tests help measure your activity tolerance and monitor your heart's response to physical exertion. If you are unable to exercise, medications to mimic the effect of exercise on your heart may be used. Cardiac catheterization.
Can you have heart valve surgery if you are not experiencing symptoms?
Doctors may suggest heart valve surgery even if you aren't experiencing symptoms, as this may prevent complications and improve outcomes. If you need surgery for another heart condition, your doctor may repair or replace the diseased valve at the same time.
What are the problems with heart valves?
Heart valve problems fall into two major categories: Stenosis – The opening of the valve is too narrow, and this interferes with the forward flow of blood. Regurgitation – The valve doesn't close properly. It leaks, sometimes causing a significant backflow of blood.
What causes heart valve problems?
Some causes of acquired heart valve problems include: Rheumatic fever, an inflammatory illness that may follow an untreated strep throat infection. Endocarditis, inflammation and infection of the heart valves.
What age does mitral valve prolapse occur?
It is a common condition, particularly among women between the ages of 14 and 30. The underlying cause is unknown, and the majority of patients never have symptoms. In most women with this condition, mitral valve prolapse has no significance.
What happens when the aortic valve does not close properly?
Aortic regurgitation – In aortic regurgitation, the aortic valve does not close properly, allowing blood to flow backward into the left ventricle. This decreases the forward flow of oxygenated blood through the aorta, while the backflow into the ventricle eventually dilates (stretches) the ventricle out of shape.
How many babies have congenital heart valve disease?
Congenital heart valve disease affects about 1 in 1,000 newborns. Most of these infants have stenosis of either the pulmonary or the aortic valve. Often, a specific reason for the congenital heart valve problem cannot be determined. However, researchers believe that many cases are caused by genetic (inherited) factors.
Why is the pulmonic valve damaged?
Adult disorders of the pulmonic valve – In adults, the pulmonic valve most often is damaged because of pulmonary hypertension (abnormally high pressure within the blood vessels in the lungs).
How is a balloon valvoplasty done?
This can be done in several different ways: Percutaneous balloon valvoplasty (for stenosis) – In this procedure, a tiny catheter with a balloon at its tip is passed through the narrowed heart valve. The tiny balloon then is inflated and pulled back through the narrowed valve to widen it.
What is the goal of heart valve surgery?
The goal of heart valve surgery is to correct the valve disorder, reduce or eliminate symptoms, lengthen life and improve the quality of life.
What kind of doctor can treat heart valve problems?
Treatment may require you to visit a highly specialized cardiologist or surgeon. Your family practitioner or general cardiologists may refer you to a valve disease specialist who focuses almost exclusively on heart valve problems and repair.
What is balloon valvuloplasty?
In a balloon valvuloplasty, a small catheter holding an expandable balloon is threaded into the heart and placed into the tightened valve. Next, the balloon is expanded to stretch open the valve and separate the leaflets.
Is balloon valvuloplasty more invasive than general surgery?
It's done as part of a cardiac catheterization, which is less invasive than general surgery or open heart surgery. Balloon valvuloplasty is more often performed for mitral stenosis and aortic stenosis.
Early detection of heart valve disease is key
Heart valve diseases are relatively easy to diagnose. They’re often first detected by primary care doctors during a routine physical exam by listening with a stethoscope. If your doctor hears a certain kind of heart murmur that indicates a type of heart valve disease, they’ll likely refer you to a cardiologist for a transthoracic echocardiogram.
Treatment options for mild or moderate heart valve disease
Mild or moderate heart valve disease do not require surgical therapy, but do require close observation with a cardiologist to help manage potential symptoms.
Treatment options for severe heart valve disease
We are the only provider within 50 miles of the greater Washington area that offers all of these latest treatments for heart valve disease. With all of the latest technologies available to us in the numerous trials, we have the capability to sometimes treat patients who are otherwise untreatable.
What are some examples of valve repair procedures?
Some examples of procedures include: Valve repair, which often includes an annuloplasty which is a ring that is used to tighten or reinforce the leaky valve. Procedures to place a clip on the valve. Surgery to replace the leaking valve with a device made of carbon and metal.
How to prevent heart problems?
The following lifestyle changes can help ease the symptoms and prevent more serious heart problems: Avoid alcohol, smoking and illegal drugs. Eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet, avoiding too much salt or fat. Exercise: Start slowly, and always warm up and cool down.
Why does my heart valve not close properly?
A leaky heart valve doesn't close properly when the heart beats. Heart valve leakage can place extra strain on the heart and cause symptoms or even heart failure. If you have symptoms of a leaking heart valve, talk to your healthcare provider.
What is the name of the valve that allows blood to leak backwards into the chamber?
Tricuspid valve, between the right atrium and the right ventricle. A leaky valve allows blood to leak backward into the chamber it came from. Location of the aortic valve, mitral valve, pulmonary valve and tricuspid valve inside your heart.
What is the name of the valve between the left ventricle and the aorta?
Aortic valve between the left ventricle and the aorta (main artery in the body). Mitral valve, between the left atrium and the left ventricle. Pulmonary valve, between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery. Tricuspid valve, between the right atrium and the right ventricle.
What is a leaky heart valve?
Leaky Heart Valve (Mitral Valve Regurgitation) The heart valves control blood flow through the heart. A leaky valve doesn’t close properly and can let blood leak through. Some cases are mild, but others place stress on the heart and can cause symptoms, heart failure or cardiac arrest. If needed, there are many ways to repair or replace ...
How many valves does the heart have?
The heart has four valves that open and close when the heart beats. They control blood flow through the four chambers of the heart so that blood goes in only one direction. But a valve may not close properly and lets blood through. That’s called a leaky heart valve, heart valve regurgitation or valve insufficiency.
What kind of doctor treats mitral valve regurgitation?
A doctor trained in heart disease (cardiologist) will provide your care. If you have mitral valve regurgitation, consider being treated at a medical center with a multidisciplinary team of doctors and medical staff trained and experienced in evaluating and treating heart valve disease.
How do surgeons repair valves?
Surgeons can repair the valve by reconnecting valve flaps (leaflets), replacing the cords that support the valve, or removing excess valve tissue so that the leaflets can close tightly. Surgeons may often tighten or reinforce the ring around a valve (annulus) by implanting an artificial ring (annuloplasty band).
What is the sound of blood leaking backwards through the mitral valve?
Mitral valve regurgitation usually produces a sound of blood leaking backward through the mitral valve (heart murmur). Your doctor will then decide which tests are needed to make a diagnosis. For testing, you may be referred to a cardiologist.
Can a mitral valve be repaired?
Your mitral valve may need to be repaired or replaced. Doctors may suggest mitral valve repair or replacement even if you aren't experiencing symptoms, as this may prevent complications and improve outcomes. If you need surgery for another heart condition, your doctor may repair or replace the diseased mitral valve at the same time.
Treatment Options
Diseased heart valves can be treated in several ways. Medication is often used as a first line of defense but may not be a permanent solution. You may wish to ask your doctor if surgical valve repair and/or surgical valve replacement are right for you. Click on the links below to learn more about your treatment options for heart valve disease.
Treatment options for heart valve disease
Diseased heart valves can be treated in several ways. Medication is often used as a first line of defense but may not be a permanent solution. You may wish to ask your doctor if surgical valve repair and/or surgical valve replacement are right for you. Click on the links below to learn more about your treatment options for heart valve disease.
How to manage heart valve problems?
Your doctor will decide on the best treatment options for you based on your age, the severity of the problem and your general health. Some people can be managed with a combination of medications and lifestyle changes.
Why does my heart valve malfunction?
What causes a heart valve to malfunction? A heart valve is “malfunctioning” when it fails to fully open or close. There are many reasons why people can have problems with their heart valves including: congenital valve abnormalities (abnormalities that they're born with) older age.
Why do heart valves close?
The valves open and close to ensure that blood flows in the proper direction. Each heart valve is made up of thin but strong flaps of tissue (also called leaflets or cusps) that open and close about 100,000 times each day. The four heart valves are called: the pulmonic valve.
What is a congenital valve abnormality?
congenital valve abnormalities (abnormalities that they're born with) infections of the heart such as rheumatic heart fever and endocarditis. Stenosis of a heart valve means that the opening has become narrower and the valve can't open properly. The heart has to work harder to pump the blood throughout the body.
Diagnosis
Treatment
Clinical Trials
- Explore Mayo Clinic studiestesting new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- You'll have regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your condition. It's a good idea to make several heart-healthy lifestyle changes, including: 1. Eating a heart-healthy diet.Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, low-fat or fat-free dairy products, poultry, fish, and whole grains. Avoid saturated and trans fats and excess salt and sugar. 2. Maintaining a healthy weight.Aim t…
Coping and Support
- If you have heart valve disease, here are some steps that may help you cope: 1. Take medications as prescribed.Take your medications as directed by your doctor. 2. Get support.Having support from your family and friends can help you cope with your condition. Ask your doctor about support groups that may be helpful. 3. Stay active.It's a good idea t...
Preparing For Your Appointment
- If you think you have heart valve disease, make an appointment to see your doctor. Here's some information to help you prepare for your appointment.
What Are Heart Valve Problems?
Symptoms
- Many people with mild heart valve problems do not have any symptoms, and the abnormal valve is discovered only when a heart murmur is heard during a physical examination. For more severe heart valve problems, symptoms vary slightly depending on which valve is involved. 1. Congenital heart valve problems– Severe valve narrowing can cause a condition called cyanosis, in which t…
Diagnosis
- If you are having symptoms, your doctor will begin by evaluating your risk of heart valve problems. Your doctor will ask questions about your family history of heart problems; your personal history of rheumatic fever, syphilis, hypertension, arteriosclerosis or connective tissue disorders; and your risk of endocarditis caused by intravenous (IV) drug use or a recent medical or dental procedure…
Expected Duration
- In general, heart valve problems often persist throughout life and may gradually worsen with time. Those caused by endocarditis sometimes may produce severe symptoms and rapid deterioration within a few days.
Prevention
- There is no way to prevent the majority of congenital heart valve problems. Pregnant women should have regularly scheduled prenatal care and should avoid using alcohol. You can prevent certain acquired heart valve abnormalities by preventing rheumatic fever. To do this, take antibiotics exactly as prescribed whenever you have strep throat.
Treatment
- If you have a mild heart valve problem without any symptoms, your doctor may simply monitor your condition. If you have moderate or severe symptoms, your treatment will be determined by the severity of your symptoms and the results of diagnostic tests. Although your doctor can give you medications to temporarily treat symptoms such as angina, cardiac arrhythmias and heart f…
When to Call A Professional
- Call your doctor immediately if you begin to experience any symptoms that may be related to a heart problem, especially shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, or fainting spells. If you have been diagnosed with a heart valve problem, ask your doctor whether you are at risk of endocarditis. If so, you will need to take antibiotics before undergoing any medical or den…
Prognosis
- Among patients who undergo surgical treatments for heart valve problems, the major risks occur during and immediately after surgery. After that, the outlook is usually excellent. People that have had surgery are at higher risk of developing an infection on the heart valve (endocarditis) throughout life.
Further Information
- Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. Medical Disclaimer