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Repair vs. Replacement of Heart ValvesSome valvular disease patients may go decades with no significant symptoms, while others may need their heart valve repaired or replaced early on in the disease. Whether a patient’s heart valve is repaired or replaced depends on many factors and both approaches can be highly successful. However, in recent years, evidence suggests that repairing a heart valve, specifically the mitral valve, is preferred over replacing it with a mechanical or bioprosthetic valve.
Repairing the mitral valve can mean better outcomes over the long term as compared to replacing it. Retaining the normal structure of the heart through valve repair, can mean better pumping function and fewer complications over the long term. While the procedure to repair a heart valve can be more complicated than valve replacement, it is still preferred in appropriate patients. At Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin, our surgeons have the skill and expertise to repair heart valves when others may only be able to recommend valve replacement.
Multidisciplinary CareBecause many valvular disease patients may have other heart problems, being part of the Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin’s Heart & Vascular Center means excellent, comprehensive care for our patients. In addition to our valvular disease specialists, our patients have access to highly skilled cardiologists, vascular surgeons, interventional radiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons.
Minimally Invasive ProceduresAs a leading academic medical center, we have access to the latest advancements in techniques and technology. That’s why we are able to offer minimally invasive valve repair and replacement procedures for appropriate patients. Minimally invasive valve procedures have clear benefits for patients – less pain and quicker recovery among them – but the procedures themselves can be more complicated. While some facilities won’t offer minimally invasive valve procedures, our surgeons have the training, skill and experience to perform them on a regular basis.
Author: Joan Pike | Medical Reviewer: | Timothy Woods, MD, FACC | | Medical College of Wisconsin Cardiologist |
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