The mitral valve is one of the four valves in the human heart. This particular valve is responsible for circulating blood efficiently throughout the body. The mitral valve is located between the left atrium and left ventricle and helps regulate blood flow from the heart’s upper chamber to the lower chamber. However, when this valve becomes diseased or damaged, it can lead to significant health issues, ultimately resulting in life-threatening conditions like heart failure or stroke. Individuals suffering from mitral valve repair can consider mitral valve repair in India as an effective treatment option. In this blog, we will be discussing the aftermath of mitral valve repair, that is, procedure and recovery. 

Procedure for Mitral Valve Repair

Mitral valve repair is a delicate procedure that requires careful planning and execution. Depending on the patient's specific condition, there are several techniques that a cardiac surgeon may use:

• Traditional Open-Heart Surgery

Mitral valve repair can be performed by traditional open-heart surgery. During the surgery, the valve can be repaired in the below mentioned ways: 

1. Reshaping the valve

2. Repairing the chordae tendineae

3. Replacing the annulus

• Minimally Invasive Surgery

In some cases, mitral valve repair can be performed using a minimally invasive approach. This method uses smaller incisions and specialized instruments, resulting in less trauma to the body, a shorter recovery time, and a reduced risk of complications. The surgeon may use small robotic arms or a catheter inserted through tiny incisions between the ribs to access the heart.

• Robotic-Assisted Surgery

Some hospitals offer robotic-assisted mitral valve repair using da Vinci surgical systems. In this approach, the surgeon controls robotic arms that perform the procedure through small incisions. This method allows for greater precision and can reduce the length of the incision and recovery time.

Regardless of the technique, the goal is to repair the damaged mitral valve to restore its proper function and prevent the backflow of blood, improving heart function and overall health.

Recovery After Mitral Valve Repair

Recovery from mitral valve repair depends upon the type of repair and the extent or severity of the condition. However, the basic steps to recovery after mitral valve repair include: 

• Hospital Stay for 5 to 7 days. 

• Following Post-Operative Care Guidelines 

• Gradual Return to Normal Activities after 6 to 8 weeks

• Follow-Up Appointments

Potential Complications Associated with Mitral Valve Repair

The potential risks associated with the surgery include:

• Infection

• Bleeding

• Valve Failure or Regurgitation

• Blood Clots and Stroke

Benefits of Mitral Valve Repair

The benefits of mitral valve repair are as follows: 

• Restoration of normal heart function

• Reduced risk of complications

• Improved quality of life

• Lower mortality rates

Get expert consultation at the Best Hospital for Heart Surgery in Delhi, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi!

Mitral valve repair is a highly effective procedure for individuals with mitral valve disease, offering improved heart function, reduced symptoms, and better long-term health outcomes. The procedure itself has evolved significantly, with minimally invasive options offering faster recovery times and less discomfort. However, as with any surgery, it's important to carefully follow recovery guidelines and attend follow-up appointments to ensure optimal results. To know more, book an expert consultation with Dr. Sujay Shad at the best hospital for heart surgery in Delhi, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, today!