Our Summary

This study looks at a surgical approach for treating problems with the aortic root and mitral valve in the heart. The technique involves preserving the existing valves while repairing them, an approach that hasn’t been extensively studied when both valves are involved.

The researchers looked at patients who had undergone this dual valve-preserving surgery in a Belgian hospital from 2000 to 2022. They found that the survival rate ten years after surgery was 90%, and the rate of people who didn’t need any further operations was 84%.

However, they discovered that patients with connective tissue disorders had a lower rate of avoiding further operations (63%). Most patients who had a specific type of mitral valve repair needed further operations.

In conclusion, while these combined surgeries are complex, they can be done safely and have good long-term outcomes. The study also emphasizes the importance of using standard techniques for mitral valve repair, especially in patients with connective tissue disorders.

FAQs

  1. What is the survival rate ten years after the dual valve-preserving surgery?
  2. What is the rate of patients who didn’t need any further operations after the dual valve-preserving surgery?
  3. How do patients with connective tissue disorders fare after receiving the dual valve-preserving surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One tip a doctor might give to a patient about aortic valve replacement is to follow a healthy lifestyle post-surgery. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active, avoiding smoking, and managing stress. These lifestyle changes can help improve overall heart health and reduce the risk of complications after the surgery. Additionally, it’s important for patients to attend all follow-up appointments with their healthcare team to monitor their progress and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for aortic valve replacement include those with severe aortic valve stenosis or regurgitation, as well as those with aortic valve disease and other heart conditions such as coronary artery disease, mitral valve disease, or heart failure. Patients who are symptomatic, such as experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue, may also be recommended for aortic valve replacement. Additionally, patients who have not responded well to other treatments, such as medication or aortic valve repair, may be candidates for aortic valve replacement.

Timeline

Before aortic valve replacement:

  1. Patient presents with symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, or fainting episodes.
  2. Diagnostic tests are performed, including echocardiogram, cardiac catheterization, and MRI, to determine the extent of the valve damage.
  3. The decision is made to proceed with aortic valve replacement surgery.
  4. Pre-operative preparations are made, including blood tests, imaging scans, and consultations with the surgical team.

After aortic valve replacement:

  1. Patient undergoes aortic valve replacement surgery, which can be done through traditional open-heart surgery or minimally invasive techniques.
  2. Recovery in the hospital typically involves monitoring for complications such as bleeding, infection, or arrhythmias.
  3. Physical therapy and cardiac rehabilitation may be recommended to help the patient regain strength and endurance.
  4. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the patient’s progress and assess the function of the new valve.
  5. Long-term management includes medications to prevent blood clots and infections, as well as lifestyle changes to promote heart health.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about aortic valve replacement include:

  1. What are the risks and benefits of aortic valve replacement surgery?
  2. What is the success rate of aortic valve replacement surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process after aortic valve replacement surgery?
  4. Will I need to take any medications after the surgery?
  5. Are there any restrictions on physical activity or diet after the surgery?
  6. How often will I need follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  7. What signs or symptoms should I watch out for that may indicate a complication after the surgery?
  8. Are there any alternative treatments to aortic valve replacement that I should consider?
  9. How long can I expect the replacement valve to last?
  10. Are there any specific considerations for my individual health condition that may affect the success of the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Lorenz V, Jahanyar J, Mastrobuoni S, Segreto A, Zanella L, Aphram G, Pettinari M, El Khoury G, De Kerchove L. Journal: Interdiscip Cardiovasc Thorac Surg. 2025 Mar 29;40(4):ivaf067. doi: 10.1093/icvts/ivaf067. PMID: 40080707