Heart valve surgery is a vital method to replace damaged heart valves. It is required for regulating blood flow through the heart. Aortic, mitral, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves are the valves where surgery is performed. Stenosis where the heart valve becomes narrow and does not allow the blood to flow is one of the causes that affects the heart valve, leading to surgery. ‘Other reasons for heart valve surgery are regurgitation, congenital valve defects, infective endocarditis, degenerative valve disease’, shares Dr. Sujay Shad, Heart Doctor in Delhi at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.

Surgery depends on factors such as the severity of the symptoms, heart function, risk of complications, and the patient's overall health. Here are the signs of heart valve surgery:

a. Valve Stenosis: When the heart valve narrows, it causes difficulties in blood flow as it exerts high pressure inside the heart and minimizes the blood flow supply to all parts of the body. Aortic stenosis is the common type that happens due to aging or from birth defects. Chest pain, fainting, and shortness of breath are symptoms of stenosis that require surgery.

b. Valve Regurgitation: Valve regurgitation refers to the backward flow of blood due to the valve being not closing properly. It makes the heart difficult to pump blood, causing enlarged heart and eventually heart failure. Mitral valve regurgitation is the main reason for heart valve surgery. Symptoms are tiredness, heart palpitations, and swollen ankles and feet.

c. Congenital Valve Disease: It is a defect present at the time of birth. These abnormalities over time affect the valves, leading to certain health issues. It includes reduced blood flow or heart enlargement. Surgery is necessary as it appears when the person ages. It prevents one from future health concerns.

d. Infective Endocarditis: It refers to the infection of the heart valves and inner lining of the heart chambers. It is caused by bacteria that can severely damage the heart valves. It results in valve dysfunction and heart failure. Fever, chills, fatigue, and heart murmur are the common symptoms. Antibiotics are given to the patient as they are a primary line of defense, but in severe cases, surgery is performed to remove the infected tissues or repair or replace the damaged valve.

e. Degenerative Valve Disease: It happens when the heart valves deteriorate with age. It makes it difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively, leading to shortening of breath, fatigue, and heart palpitations. The more commonly affected valves are the aortic and mitral valves. Open Heart Surgery in Delhi is crucial to restore proper valve function.

f. Rheumatic Heart Disease: This disease damages the heart valves that can impair blood flow and cause shortness of breath, chest pain and fatigue. Medications or surgery is preferred in severe cases.

The heart is one of the most important body organs and must be provided with proper care, and negligence towards signs of heart issues can lead to fatal conditions. For more details, consult the heart expert or surgeon Dr. Sujay Shad at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.