Valve Replacement Cardiac Surgery in Turkey
Discover Valve Replacement Cardiac Surgery in Turkey
Valve replacement cardiac surgery is a procedure performed to replace a diseased or damaged heart valve with a prosthetic valve. The heart has four valves – the aortic, mitral, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves – that regulate blood flow through the heart chambers. When one or more of these valves become damaged or dysfunctional due to conditions such as valve stenosis or regurgitation, valve replacement surgery may be necessary to restore proper heart function.
Types of Replacement Valves:
There are two main types of replacement valves used in valve replacement surgery:
Mechanical Valves: These valves are made of durable materials such as metal or carbon and are designed to last a lifetime. However, individuals with mechanical valves will need to take blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) for the rest of their lives to prevent blood clots.
Biological Valves: Also known as tissue valves, biological valves are made from animal tissue (e.g., pig or cow) or human tissue (from a donated heart). While biological valves do not require lifelong blood-thinning medication, they may need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years due to wear and tear.
The Surgical Process:
Before surgery, you’ll undergo various tests and evaluations to assess your overall health and suitability for surgery. You’ll also receive anesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. The surgeon makes an incision in the chest to access the heart. In some cases, minimally invasive techniques may be used, which involve smaller incisions and shorter recovery times. The diseased or damaged heart valve is removed, and the prosthetic valve is implanted in its place. The surgeon then closes the incision, and the procedure is complete.
Valve replacement cardiac surgery is a highly effective treatment option for individuals with severe heart valve disease. While the prospect of undergoing heart surgery may seem daunting, advancements in medical technology and surgical techniques have made valve replacement procedures safer and more successful than ever before. If you or a loved one are facing the possibility of valve replacement surgery, discussing the procedure in detail with a heart surgeon can help alleviate any concerns and ensure the best possible outcome.