What is surgical aortic valve replacement?
Surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) is a major surgery to replace the aortic valve, which is the valve that controls the flow of blood from the heart to the aorta. The aorta is the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body.
What does SAVR treat?
SAVR is typically used to treat aortic stenosis, a condition in which the aortic valve narrows and restricts blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. Aortic stenosis can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, and other symptoms. SAVR can also be used to treat aortic regurgitation, a condition in which the aortic valve leaks and allows blood to flow back into the heart. Aortic regurgitation can cause shortness of breath, fatigue, and other symptoms.
How common is SAVR?
SAVR is one of the most common heart surgeries performed in the United States. In 2020, there were over 50,000 SAVR procedures performed in the United States.
What happens before this surgery?
Before SAVR, you will have a thorough evaluation by your doctor. This will include a physical exam, blood tests, and imaging tests, such as an echocardiogram or stress test. This will help your doctor determine if you are a good candidate for SAVR and to develop a surgical plan.
Choosing your replacement valve
There are two main types of replacement valves used in SAVR: mechanical valves and biological valves. Mechanical valves are made of synthetic materials, such as metal or plastic. Biological valves are made from animal tissue, such as cow or pig heart valves.
Each type of valve has its own advantages and disadvantages. Mechanical valves are more durable and last longer than biological valves, but they can also increase your risk of blood clots. Biological valves are less likely to cause blood clots, but they may need to be replaced sooner than mechanical valves.
Your doctor will help you choose the best type of replacement valve for your individual needs.
What happens during surgical aortic valve replacement?
SAVR is a major surgery that is typically performed under general anesthesia. During surgery, your doctor will make a large incision in your chest and open your sternum. Your heart will be stopped and placed on a heart-lung machine, which will circulate blood throughout your body while your heart is stopped.
Your doctor will then remove your diseased aortic valve and replace it with a new valve. Once the new valve is in place, your doctor will restart your heart and close your chest.
How long does aortic valve replacement surgery take?
SAVR surgery typically takes 3 to 6 hours to complete.
What happens after this surgery?
After SAVR surgery, you will spend several days in the hospital. During this time, your heart rate and blood pressure will be monitored closely. You will also be given medication to prevent pain and infection.
Once you are stable, you will be discharged from the hospital. You will likely need to take medication for several months after surgery to prevent blood clots and infection. You will also need to follow up with your doctor regularly to monitor your progress.
Risks / Benefits
What are the benefits of this procedure?
The main benefit of SAVR is that it can relieve the symptoms of aortic stenosis or regurgitation and improve your quality of life. SAVR can also prolong your life.
What is the success rate of aortic valve replacement surgery?
SAVR is a very successful surgery. The success rate is over 95%.
What are the risks or complications of this procedure?
Like any surgery, SAVR carries some risks. These risks include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Nerve damage
- Kidney damage
- Death
The risks of SAVR vary depending on your age, overall health, and other factors. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of SAVR with you before surgery.
When should I call my healthcare provider?
You should call your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following symptoms after SAVR surgery:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Fainting
- Dizziness
- Palpitations
- Fever
- Chills
- Redness or drainage at the incision site
- Swelling in your legs
