Our Summary

This research paper discusses a rare case where a patient with a specific heart condition (functional univentricular anatomy) was treated with a special heart device (Heartware ventricular assist device) due to serious heart problems and repeated failure of a specific kind of surgery (Fontan). A year later, the patient had to undergo another surgery to replace two heart valves because of further complications. The design of one of the replacement valves used (MITRIS mitral valve) was particularly helpful in preventing any interference with the previously implanted heart device in the patient’s less enlarged heart chamber.

FAQs

  1. What is the heart condition mentioned in the research paper and how was it treated?
  2. What was the reason for the patient needing to undergo another surgery a year later?
  3. Why was the design of the MITRIS mitral valve particularly helpful in this case?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about valve replacement is to follow a strict medication regimen after surgery. This may include blood thinners to prevent blood clots from forming on the new valve, as well as antibiotics to prevent infection. It is important for patients to take their medications as prescribed and to follow up with their doctor regularly to monitor their progress and adjust their treatment plan as needed.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended valve replacement are those with severe valve disease that is causing symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, or dizziness. Valve replacement may also be recommended for patients with valve disease that is causing heart failure, heart rhythm abnormalities, or enlargement of the heart chambers.

Specific types of patients who may be recommended valve replacement include those with:

  1. Severe aortic stenosis or regurgitation
  2. Severe mitral stenosis or regurgitation
  3. Severe tricuspid regurgitation
  4. Severe pulmonic stenosis or regurgitation
  5. Patients with congenital heart defects that affect the heart valves

In some cases, valve replacement may be recommended for patients who have had previous valve repair surgery that has failed or patients with certain medical conditions that make them high risk for open-heart surgery.

Ultimately, the decision to recommend valve replacement is based on a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and overall health. The goal of valve replacement is to improve the patient’s quality of life, relieve symptoms, and prevent further complications related to valve disease.

Timeline

Before Valve Replacement:

  • Patient with functional univentricular anatomy undergoes Fontan surgery
  • Patient experiences repeated heart failure and complications
  • Patient is treated with Heartware ventricular assist device to support heart function

After Valve Replacement:

  • Patient undergoes surgery to replace two heart valves (one being MITRIS mitral valve)
  • MITRIS mitral valve design prevents interference with previously implanted heart device
  • Patient experiences improved heart function and reduced complications post-surgery

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and benefits of valve replacement surgery in my specific case?
  2. How will the valve replacement surgery affect my overall heart function and quality of life?
  3. What type of valve will be used for the replacement and why was this specific valve chosen?
  4. How long is the recovery process expected to be after the valve replacement surgery?
  5. Will I need to take any medication or make lifestyle changes after the valve replacement surgery?
  6. How often will I need follow-up appointments and monitoring after the valve replacement surgery?
  7. Are there any potential complications or long-term effects I should be aware of after the valve replacement surgery?
  8. How will the valve replacement surgery impact any other heart conditions or devices I have, such as the previously implanted heart device in this case?

Reference

Authors: Fujita S, Oda S, Ono T, Sonoda H, Shiose A. Journal: Ann Thorac Surg. 2022 Jun;113(6):e437-e439. doi: 10.1016/j.athoracsur.2021.08.050. Epub 2021 Sep 29. PMID: 34599908