DVR ( Double Valve Replacement Surgery )

Double Valve Replacement Surgery in India: Advancing Cardiac Care

With the advancement in cardiovascular Surgery, medical professionals in India can now perform very complex procedures with utmost precision. Double valve replacement surgery is one such procedure that gives a new life to a patient suffering from severe valve disease. In this article, we will look more into the intricacies of double valve replacement surgery, its importance, how the procedure is performed, and what is best to get the valve replacement Surgery done in India.

Understanding Double Valve Replacement Surgery

Human hearts have four valves that ensure unidirectional blood flow, ensuring optimal circulation. Many conditions can damage heart valves, like congenital anomalies, degenerative changes, infections, and rheumatic fever. A double valve replacement is necessary when the aortic and mitral valves are severely damaged.

Significance of Double Valve Replacement

The double valve replacement surgery restores normal blood flow and improves heart function. If both aortic and mitral valves are damaged, the heart’s pumping efficiency is severely reduced, causing shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, and edema. Leaving this condition untreated can cause heart failure and reduce the quality of life. A double valve replacement surgery can help relieve these symptoms, improve overall health, and prolong your life.

Symptoms

Here are some common symptoms that may indicate the need for a double valve replacement surgery:
● Shortness of breath
● Fatigue
● Weakness
● Chest pain
● Palpitations
● Edema of the feet
● Dizziness
● Cyanosis
● Persistent cough
● Weight gain

Imaging and Lab Tests

Imaging and lab tests required for double valve replacement surgery are:
● TEE
● Cardiac CT Scan
● Cardiac MRI

Types of Double Valve Replacement Surgery Performed in India

Double valve replacement surgery involves the removal of the aortic valve and mitral valve and its replacement with prosthetic valves. The procedure is performed in India using two ways:

Traditional Open Heart Surgery

In traditional open-heart Surgery, the patient is under general anesthesia. A large incision is made in the chest to reach the heart. You will be connected to a heart-lung machine, and the surgeon will then remove the diseased aortic and mitral valves to replace them with prosthetic ones.

Minimally Invasive Double Valve Surgery

A minimally invasive double valve replacement reduces surgical trauma, shortens recovery time, and improves cosmetic outcomes. The procedure uses smaller incisions, specialized instruments, and advanced imaging.

One technique is robotic-assisted Surgery, where the surgeon controls robot arms to make small incisions. Another way to get to the heart is through thoracoscopic Surgery. These two techniques offer benefits like reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery.

Before the Surgery

● You can ask your healthcare provider questions about Surgery.
● You’ll need to sign a consent form if you’re going in for Surgery.
● Before Surgery, your healthcare provider will make sure you’re healthy otherwise.
● Wait to eat or drink for 8 hours before the procedure.
● If you’re pregnant, let your doctor know.
● Please let your healthcare provider know if you’re allergic to any medicines, iodine, latex, tape, or anesthetics.
● Be sure your healthcare provider knows if you’ve had bleeding disorders or if you take anticoagulants (blood thinners) or aspirin. You have to stop these medicines four days before Surgery.
● Your healthcare provider might test your blood’s clotting time before Surgery.
● Tell your doctor if you have a pacemaker.
● Stop smoking right away if you’re a smoker. It improves your chances of a successful surgery recovery.
● Your healthcare provider may ask you to make additional preparations.

During The Surgery

● You will be under general anesthesia to ensure you are asleep during the procedure.
● The surgeon will then make small incisions in the chest ( sternum or right side of the chest) to access the heart and valves.
● In minimally invasive heart surgery, the incisions are designed to be small while still allowing access to necessary structures within the chest. Smaller incisions may range from a few centimeters to 5-8 centimeters in length (about 2-3 inches).
● The minimally invasive technique involves two approaches:
● The thoracic approach involves the insertion of a thoracoscope ( a tube with a camera at the end) to give the surgeon a magnified view.
● In some instances, surgeons in India use a robotic approach, where the surgeon’s movements are translated into precise motions of the robotic arms to increase agility. Since this approach gives a 3D view, the prosthetic valves are placed accurately.
● Once the surgeon reaches the heart, the prosthetic ones replace the two valves. The valves are attached to the heart using sutures or other fixing methods.
● In some cases, the surgeon may also place you on a heart-lung machine, which takes over the heart’s function while the heart is not working.
● After the replacement, the incisions are closed with sutures.

After the Surgery

Immediately post-op:

● You will be monitored in the CTVS ICU room as the anesthesia wears off after Surgery.
● The hospital staff will monitor your vital signs, like heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels.
● To make sure you are comfortable, pain medications are administered.

During your hospital stay:

● Hospital stay is typically shorter than traditional open heart surgery, usually a week.
● Moving and walking immediately is essential to prevent complications like blood clots.
● As your condition stabilizes, IV lines and catheters can be removed.
● Cardiac monitoring keeps tabs on your heart’s function.
● If you’re using chest tubes, remove them once the drainage is acceptable.
● Some patients start physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.

Recovering at home after discharge:

● You will be discharged when you can walk, manage daily activities, and have stable vital signs.
● Pain relievers, antibiotics, and blood thinners might be prescribed.
● Increase activity gradually while avoiding strenuous tasks.
● Follow-up appointments with the surgeon and cardiologist are essential for monitoring your progress.

The long-term recovery process:

● A cardiac rehabilitation program guides patients through structured exercises and lifestyle adjustments.
● For long-term cardiac health, it’s essential to eat a heart-healthy diet.
● Follow your prescribed medications strictly, including anticoagulants if needed.
● Depending on the job’s demands, you can return to work within a few weeks to a few months.
● For the initial recovery phase, you should avoid crowded places and follow hygiene practices.
● Regular checkups with the doctors will monitor your heart, valves, and overall health.

Coping and emotional support:

● The emotional support of family, friends, and support groups can make a big difference in recovery.
● Emotional challenges can arise from lifestyle changes and Surgery; counseling or therapy can help.

A look at the long-term:

● Successful recovery can lead to reduced symptoms, increased energy levels, and improved quality of life.
● Lifelong follow-ups are needed to monitor the health of your replaced valves and your heart.

Mechanical Vs. Biological Valves

Advantages of Minimally Invasive Double Valve Surgery

The several advantages of double valve surgery include:
● Small size incision 4 – 6 cm
● Short hospital stay generally 5 to 7 days
● Fast recovery
● Improved cosmetic outcomes
● Lower risk of complications
● No postoperative anemia

Risks

Risks come with any surgery. There are a few risks associated with heart valve surgery:
● Heart attack.
● Failure of the heart.
● Heart rhythm problems – you might need a pacemaker.
● Stroke.
● Infection.
● Bleeding.

Before your Surgery, your cardiologist and surgeon will discuss these risks with you.

Advancement in Double Valve Replacement Techniques

The advancement in medical technology in India has significantly improved the outcomes of double valve replacement surgery in India.

● The use of 3D printing has allowed surgeons to perform highly complex procedures.

Why is India a Hub for Double Valve Replacement Surgery?

India is now a global hub for medical tourism because of the following:

● Affordability
● Skilled surgeons and medical teams
● Cutting-edge medical infrastructure
● Personalized care and hospitality

Clinical Outcomes

● There is no significant difference in mortality in DVR.
● Mortality is 6.3% in the DVR, and overall mortality is 17% for DVR
● When it comes to rheumatic valve disease and endocarditis, DVR is preferred.
● Mechanical valves are used more in the DVR.
● Rehospitalization, left ventricular ejection fraction deterioration, and postoperative complications are equally common in all valve replacements.

Cost of Double Valve Replacement in Top Hospitals 

How can you avail the best Double Valve replacement surgery in India-Step By Step process?

Cross Border Care is here for you if you are looking for trustworthy treatment consultants in India. We will help you find the best doctor in India and get your treatment done for JCI-accredited hospitals at the most pocket-friendly rates. Our team includes experienced medical professionals with you at each treatment step. So, if you are planning your double valve replacement surgery in India, fill out the form below, and we will help you to choose the best doctor and hospital providing state-of-art-technology.

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