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Heart Valve Surgery
During heart valve surgery, one or more valves are repaired or replaced. Repair means that the valve is mended, while replacement means the diseased valve is removed and a new valve is inserted in its place.
Minimally Invasive Heart Valve Surgery
Minimally Invasive Heart Valve Surgery uses much smaller incisions to reach the heart and its valves. More information on Minimally Invasive Heart Valve Surgery
Repairing a Valve
During valve repair, a ring may be sewn around the opening of the valve to tighten it. Other parts of the valve may be cut, shortened, separated, or made stronger to help the valve open and close right.
Replacing a Valve
If a valve can't be repaired, part or all of the damaged valve and its supportive structures may be removed, and may be replaced with a mechanical or biological prosthetic valve. Mechanical valves are created from man-made materials. Biological (tissue) valves are taken from pig, cow, or human donors.
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