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Surgical Procedures & Heart Info
Aortic Valve Replacement
What is an Aortic Valve Replacment?
An aortic valve replacement is an "open heart" procedure that is used to treat an aortic valve that is leaking or narrowing.
What is the function of the Aortic Valve?
An off-pump coronary bypass is necessary when the coronary arteries that bring blood to the heart muscle become clogged by a buildup of fat, cholesterol and other substances. This buildup can slow down or even stop blood flow through the heart's blood vessels, leading to chest pain or a heart attack. An off-pump coronary bypass increases blood flow to the heart muscle which relieves chest pain and reduces the risk of heart attack.
When is an Aortic Valve Replacement necessary?
Not all patients are a candidate for off-pump coronary bypass and must have a traditional coronary artery bypass. Usually the selection of patients who can undergo an off-pump coronary artery bypass is made at the time of surgery when the surgeon can evaluate the patient's heart and arteries more closely. For some patients, the risk of stroke and other complications arise when a heart-lung machine is used to handle the circulation for the patient's body; therefore, an off-pump coronary bypass is ideal for certain patients who are at increased risk for complications from cardiopulmonary bypass.
What causes an Aortic Valve to malfunction?
The majority of off-pump coronary bypass patients have been known to show improvements or complete relief of their symptoms. In addition, many recover from surgery quicker than those who go through a traditional coronary artery bypass and usually have fewer post-operative complications.
What are the risks of Aortic Valve Replacement surgery?
The majority of off-pump coronary bypass patients have been known to show improvements or complete relief of their symptoms. In addition, many recover from surgery quicker than those who go through a traditional coronary artery bypass and usually have fewer post-operative complications.
What will my living condition be like after an Aortic Valve Replacement?
The majority of off-pump coronary bypass patients have been known to show improvements or complete relief of their symptoms. In addition, many recover from surgery quicker than those who go through a traditional coronary artery bypass and usually have fewer post-operative complications.
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The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be used as a substitute for an informed discussion with your physician. If you have further questions regarding this procedure, please write them down so your physician or other healthcare professionals can answer them for you.
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