Purpose
The heart valves ensure blood flows in the correct direction through the heart. If a valve becomes too tight or begins to leak, it can cause unwelcome symptoms. Valve replacement or repair surgery is usually performed through an incision in the chest. The breastbone is cut so the surgeon can access the heart for surgery. In contrast, minimally invasive heart valve replacement or repair is performed through a small incision between the ribs.
Our cardiac surgery team has a superior level of experience and skill in performing minimally invasive heart surgery.
This procedure may not be possible for all patients requiring heart valve surgery. The team evaluates each case to determine if it is the right choice for each patient.
The benefits of minimally invasive valve surgery
- No cutting of the breastbone
- Less time spent in hospital
- Faster return to typical activities
- Decreased blood loss
- Lower risk of infection
- Smaller scar
An advantage for patients who undergo minimally invasive surgery is the short recovery time. Patients are often discharged within two or three days.
Patients are free to move as they wish and may return to their typical levels of activity within a few weeks.
Medications, lifestyle changes and cardiac rehabilitation continue to improve heart health after surgery.
Description
- A small incision (cut) is made between the ribs, to allow the surgeon to access the heart.
- The surgeon will repair or replace the valve with a prosthetic (artificial heart valve).
Patient instructions
We encourage you and your family to attend a class before and after surgery to help you to prepare for surgery and understand what to expect when you go home.
You will also receive the Recovering From Cardiac Surgery patient guide, which contains detailed information about your surgery.
On discharge, a nurse will meet with you and your family members to review all the medications you will be taking.