Aortic Valve Replacement Options
Like most heart valve operations, aortic valve surgery
is typically an "open heart" procedure performed by heart surgeons,
also known as cardiothoracic surgeons.
Traditional aortic valve replacement surgeries require the
breast bone (sternum) to be split down the middle using a procedure
known as a median sternotomy. This provides the surgeon with full
access to the heart and chest cavity.
Performing aortic valve replacement through a small
incision between the ribs in a new procedure that can reduce
postoperative pain and scarring, and improve recovery
time.
With the newly developed minimally invasive procedure, surgeons
reach the heart through a smaller incision between the ribs, often
only two inches long. They use special instruments as well as
cameras to reach and operate on the heart through the smaller
opening. The mini-valve procedure allows us to operate on the heart
without 'opening' the chest--typically our patients' greatest
fear.