Mitral valve Replacement:
Sometimes the Mitral valve disease is
so
bad that the surgeon will replace your
entire valve. The old valve is
completely removed and a new valve is
sewn in. There are two different types
of
valves used for replacement, Metal
(mechanical) and tissue (bio
prosthetic). These two options are
discussed further in Chapter 8.
Surgical approaches:
Sternotomy is when there is a vertical (up and down) incision made along the breastbone
(sternum) and the sternum is then divided into two parts.
Minimally invasive approaches for Mitral Valve Surgery have been developed so your
surgeon can access the valve through a much smaller incision without cutting the breast bone.
An incision is made between the ribs on the right side of the chest. The ribs are spread, but no
bone is cut. You are still required to go on the heart lung machine, so an incision in the groin is
made.
Advantages of Minimally Invasive Heart
Surgery are:
Shorter recovery period and often faster
discharge from the hospital
Fewer restrictions including driving
Lower risk of wound infections
Less pain
Improved cosmetic outcome
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