Heart valve surgery
HEART VALVE REPLACEMENT AND HEART VALVE REPAIR
Surgery to correct heart valve problems by either replacing the affected valve with a new valve or repairing the existing valve
About heart valve surgery
Need to know
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What happens during heart valve surgery? icon plus
Surgeons prefer to repair valves rather than replace them but many valves cannot be repaired. If this is the case then the surgeon will discuss the options for valve replacement (mechanical and tissue valves).
The most common approach is to divide the breastbone but sometimes smaller or keyhole incisions are possible. The procedure will be performed under general anaesthetic. -
How to prepare for surgery icon plus
You will be seen by your consultant who will discuss the reasons for recommending heart valve surgery. You will be told of the risks of the operation and the risks of not having surgery. All aspects of the procedure will be discussed including side effects.
As you're having a general anaesthetic, you'll be asked to stop eating and drinking for six hours beforehand. -
After surgery icon plus
Immediately following surgery you will likely spend a day or more in intensive care. After your time in intensive care, you will be moved to the cardiac ward. You will continue to have your blood pressure and heart rate monitored until discharge.
If you have tissue valve replacement, you may need to take an anticoagulant medicine for two to three months. This is to prevent blood clotting on the new valve and the sutures.
For mechanical valve replacement, however, this will be for the rest of your life. You'll need help at home after surgery, so you should arrange for someone to stay with you for a couple of weeks following the procedure.
You'll also need to arrange for someone help you get home from the hospital. If you are taking anticoagulants you will need to have regular blood tests locally until you are stabilised on the tablet. You will be seen by your consultant about six weeks after the operation.
Our cardiac surgeons
Our heart surgery locations in London
From complex cardiothoracic surgery to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional cardiac care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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The Portland Hospital
205 - 209 Great Portland Street
London W1W 5AH
Private heart valve surgery in Birmingham
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The Harborne Hospital
Mindelsohn Way
Birmingham B15 2FQ
Request a cardiac appointment
If heart symptoms are affecting your quality of life, we’re here to help. Our heart team is available to book an appointment with a cardiac specialist.
Call us today
020 7616 4988