The heart is a remarkable organ that tirelessly pumps oxygen-rich blood throughout our bodies. One crucial component of this intricate system is the mitral valve, which separates the left atrium and left ventricle. However, like any mechanical part, the mitral valve can develop issues, leading to a condition known as mitral valve disease. In such cases, mitral valve repair surgery emerges as a life-saving option, aiming to restore normal cardiac function and mitigate severe complications.

In this blog, we will delve into the importance of mitral valve repair, the procedure itself, and why it is a preferred choice when dealing with this cardiac condition. To make this post enlightening, the information used to draft it has been gathered from the insights shared by heart surgeon at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Dr. Sujay Shad, renowned for offering highly successful surgery for mitral valve repair in India. Read the full blog to learn more.

The Significance of Mitral Valve Repair

Mitral valve disease can manifest in two primary ways: mitral valve regurgitation (leaking) and mitral valve stenosis (narrowing). These conditions disrupt the proper flow of oxygen-rich blood from the left atrium to the left ventricle and, subsequently, to the rest of the body through the aorta. 

Over time, untreated mitral valve disease can lead to heart and lung damage, posing significant health risks. Hence, mitral valve repair surgery becomes imperative for restoring the valve's normal function, thereby lowering the risk of severe complications.

Mitral Valve Repair Surgery Procedure

Mitral valve repair surgery follows a series of carefully orchestrated steps to ensure the best possible outcome:

Anesthesia: The patient is put under deep anesthesia to ensure they remain asleep throughout the procedure.

Cardiopulmonary Bypass Machine: A cardiopulmonary bypass machine is connected to the patient. This machine temporarily takes over the role of the heart and lungs during the surgery.

Chest Incision: The surgeon makes an incision in the chest, the size of which depends on the chosen surgical method. This incision can be a full sternotomy down the middle of the chest, a partial sternotomy, a right thoracotomy (a smaller incision between two ribs), or even a robotic-assisted method involving several small incisions.

Annuloplasty Ring: An annuloplasty ring is placed around the valve, functioning like a washer to support the valve and restore its natural shape.

Valve Repair: The surgeon employs various surgical techniques to repair the mitral valve, addressing specific issues identified during the procedure.

Evaluation: The success of the repair is evaluated, with the surgeon ensuring that the valve has been fully restored to proper functioning. Adjustments are made if necessary.

Bypass Machine Disconnection: The patient is disconnected from the cardiopulmonary bypass machine, allowing their heart and lungs to resume their normal functions.

Transesophageal Echocardiogram: To inspect the valve and confirm the success of the repair, a transesophageal echocardiogram is performed.

Conclusion

Mitral valve repair surgery is a crucial and highly effective procedure for individuals with mitral valve disease. By addressing issues with the mitral valve, this surgery helps prevent severe complications that can lead to heart and lung damage. While any heart surgery involves risks, advancements in technology continue to make mitral valve repair safer and more successful.

If one is looking for the best heart hospital in Delhi that has an expert heart surgeon, they may visit Sir Ganga Ram Hospital to consult Dr. Sujay Shad. The expert heart surgeon and his team of heart doctors performs a range of heart procedures, such as aortic surgery, HOCM, heart transplants, and many more. 

To avail the benefits consult the surgeon now!