Heart valve surgery

Need to know

• What happens during heart valve surgery? icon plus

  Surgeons prefer to repair valves rather than replace them but many valves cannot be repaired. If this is the case then the surgeon will discuss the options for valve replacement (mechanical and tissue valves).
  
  The most common approach is to divide the breastbone but sometimes smaller or keyhole incisions are possible. The procedure will be performed under general anaesthetic.

• How to prepare for surgery icon plus

  You will be seen by your consultant who will discuss the reasons for recommending heart valve surgery. You will be told of the risks of the operation and the risks of not having surgery. All aspects of the procedure will be discussed including side effects.
  
  As you're having a general anaesthetic, you'll be asked to stop eating and drinking for six hours beforehand.

• After surgery icon plus

  Immediately following surgery you will likely spend a day or more in intensive care. After your time in intensive care, you will be moved to the cardiac ward. You will continue to have your blood pressure and heart rate monitored until discharge.
  
  If you have tissue valve replacement, you may need to take an anticoagulant medicine for two to three months. This is to prevent blood clotting on the new valve and the sutures.
  
  For mechanical valve replacement, however, this will be for the rest of your life. You'll need help at home after surgery, so you should arrange for someone to stay with you for a couple of weeks following the procedure.
  
  You'll also need to arrange for someone help you get home from the hospital. If you are taking anticoagulants you will need to have regular blood tests locally until you are stabilised on the tablet. You will be seen by your consultant about six weeks after the operation.