Mitral valve replacement

Mitral valve replacement is a cardiac surgery procedure in which a patient's diseased mitral valve is replaced by either a mechanical or bioprosthetic valve. Mitral valve replacement is performed when the valve becomes too tight (mitral valve stenosis) for blood to flow into the left ventricle, or too loose (mitral valve regurgitation) in which case blood can leak back into the left atrium and thereby back into the lung.

Indications[edit | edit source]

Mitral valve replacement is typically performed for the following reasons:

Mitral valve stenosis
Mitral valve regurgitation
Mitral valve prolapse with severe regurgitation
Infective endocarditis with severe valve damage

Procedure[edit | edit source]

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision down the middle of the chest and then through the breastbone. The patient's heart is then connected to a heart-lung machine, which takes over the pumping action of the heart. The surgeon then removes the diseased valve and replaces it with a new one.

Risks[edit | edit source]

As with any surgery, there are risks involved. These can include:

Recovery[edit | edit source]

Recovery from mitral valve replacement surgery typically involves a few days in the hospital, and several weeks to months of recovery at home. It is important for patients to follow their doctor's instructions for care and activity during this time.

References[edit | edit source]

Mitral valve replacement Resources
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