Double Valve Replacement
Double valve replacement is a surgical procedure performed to replace both the aortic and mitral valves of the heart. This operation is typically recommended when both valves are diseased or damaged, often due to conditions such as rheumatic heart disease, congenital defects, or endocarditis. During the procedure, the damaged valves are removed and replaced with prosthetic valves to restore normal blood flow and improve heart function. Double valve replacement requires open-heart surgery and carries risks such as bleeding, infection, and valve malfunction. However, for individuals with severe valve dysfunction, this surgery can significantly improve heart function and quality of life.
About Double Valve Replacement
Symptoms: Patients with severe damage or dysfunction of both the aortic and mitral valves may experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, heart palpitations, and dizziness. For these individuals, double valve replacement can be a beneficial treatment option.
Causes: The need for double valve replacement often arises from conditions that seriously damage or impair both the aortic and mitral valves. Common causes include rheumatic heart disease, congenital heart defects, infectious endocarditis, or degenerative valve disease.
Treatment: Double valve replacement surgery involves the removal of the diseased aortic and mitral valves, replacing them with prosthetic valves to restore normal heart function and blood flow, thereby relieving symptoms and improving overall heart health.
Procedure for Double Valve Replacement
Preparation: Before surgery, the patient undergoes imaging tests, blood work, and assessments by the surgical team to ensure readiness for the procedure.
Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered to keep the patient unconscious and pain-free throughout the operation.
Incision: A sternotomy (cutting through the breastbone) or thoracotomy (cutting through the chest wall) is performed to provide access to the heart and the aortic and mitral valves.
Valve Removal: The damaged aortic and mitral valves are carefully removed, taking care to avoid injuring surrounding tissues.
Valve Replacement: Prosthetic valves are securely stitched in place, ensuring they are correctly aligned for proper functioning.
Closure: Any necessary tubes or drains are inserted to help with post-operative recovery, and the incision is then closed with sutures.
Recovery: After the surgery, the patient is closely monitored in the intensive care unit (ICU) or cardiac recovery unit. Pain management, medications, and rehabilitation are provided as needed to aid in the recovery process.