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Heart Valve Replacement Surgery: What You Need To Know

by
January 22, 2026

heart valve surgery in Gurgaon


The heart is a remarkable organ, responsible for pumping oxygenated blood throughout the body. Its efficiency depends on healthy valves that regulate blood flow in a one-way direction. When these valves malfunction due to disease, age, or congenital conditions, heart valve replacement surgery may become necessary to restore normal heart function and prevent complications such as heart failure or stroke.

Heart valve disease can affect one or more of the four heart valves: the mitral, aortic, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves. Depending on the severity of the disease, patients may require either repair or replacement. Valve replacement is often recommended when repair is not feasible or the damage is severe.

Understanding Heart Valve Replacement Surgery

Heart valve replacement surgery is a procedure to remove a damaged or diseased heart valve and replace it with an artificial one. There are two main types of replacement valves:

  • Mechanical valves: Made of durable materials like titanium or carbon. These last longer but often require lifelong blood-thinning medication to prevent clotting.

  • Biological (tissue) valves: Made from animal tissues or human donors. These have a more natural blood flow and usually do not require long-term anticoagulation, but may have a shorter lifespan compared to mechanical valves.

Types of Heart Valve Replacement Surgery

  • Valve Replacement Open Heart Surgery

This is the traditional method where the chest is opened, and the heart is temporarily stopped to allow surgeons to replace the faulty valve. This approach allows precise placement of the new valve and is often preferred for complex cases or multiple valve involvement.

Key steps include:

  • Administering general anesthesia
  • Opening the chest via a sternotomy
  • Connecting the patient to a heart-lung machine
  • Removing the damaged valve and sewing in the replacement valve
  • Restarting the heart and closing the chest

  • Minimally Invasive Valve Replacement Surgery

In selected cases, smaller incisions can be used, reducing recovery time and scarring. Surgeons may use robotic assistance or small thoracotomy techniques to access the heart.

  • Transcatheter Valve Replacement (TAVR or TAVI)

A newer option for patients who are at high risk for traditional open heart surgery. The valve is inserted through a catheter via the leg or chest, offering quicker recovery and reduced hospital stays.

When is Heart Valve Surgery Recommended?

Heart valve surgery is considered when valve dysfunction significantly impacts heart function or causes severe symptoms such as:

  • Shortness of breath or fatigue during daily activities
  • Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
  • Heart murmurs detected during a check-up

Heart valve replacement surgery may also be necessary in cases of congenital valve defects, infective endocarditis (infection of the valve), or age-related valve degeneration.

Preparing for Valve Replacement Open Heart Surgery

Preparation is crucial for successful outcomes. Steps often include:

  • Medical evaluation: Blood tests, ECG, echocardiography, and cardiac catheterization to assess the extent of valve damage.

  • Medication management: Certain medications, especially blood thinners, may need adjustment before surgery.

  • Lifestyle adjustments: Stopping smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, and optimizing weight can improve recovery.

  • Preoperative counseling: Understanding the procedure, expected recovery, and potential risks helps patients prepare mentally and physically.

Risks and Complications

Like any major surgery, heart valve surgery carries potential risks. These may include:

  • Bleeding during or after surgery
  • Infection at the incision or around the valve
  • Blood clots leading to stroke or heart attack
  • Irregular heart rhythms requiring pacemaker implantation
  • Valve dysfunction or need for repeat surgery

Modern surgical techniques, careful preoperative planning, and postoperative monitoring have significantly reduced these risks, making valve replacement surgery a safe and life-saving procedure for many patients.

Recovery After Heart Valve Replacement Surgery

Recovery depends on the type of surgery performed. For valve replacement open heart surgery, patients typically stay in the hospital for 5–7 days, including a few days in intensive care. Minimally invasive or transcatheter procedures may require shorter stays.

Key aspects of recovery include:

  • Wound care: Keeping the surgical site clean and monitoring for infection

  • Medication adherence: Blood thinners, pain management, and other cardiac medications must be taken as prescribed

  • Gradual physical activity: Light walking is encouraged initially, with gradual increase under supervision

  • Cardiac rehabilitation: Structured programs to improve heart function, strength, and endurance

Most patients can resume normal activities within 6–12 weeks, though lifelong follow-up is required to monitor heart function and valve performance.

Choosing the Right Surgeon and Facility

Selecting an experienced cardiac surgeon and a facility equipped with modern cardiac care infrastructure is critical for successful outcomes. For patients seeking heart valve surgery in Gurgaon, it’s essential to consider:

  • Surgeons with expertise in valve replacement open heart surgery and minimally invasive techniques
  • Hospitals with dedicated cardiac ICUs and rehabilitation services
  • Availability of advanced imaging and catheterization facilities
  • Proven track record in handling complex valve cases

Safe and Effective Heart Valve Surgery with Dr. Udgeath Dhir

For those considering heart valve replacement surgery in Gurgaon, Dr. Udgeath Dhir is a trusted cardiac surgeon specializing in valve replacement open heart surgery and advanced cardiac procedures. With extensive experience in both traditional and minimally invasive valve replacement techniques, Dr. Dhir focuses on patient safety, precision, and long-term outcomes.

Take the next step toward a healthier heart, Schedule your consultation with Dr. Udgeath Dhir today and access expert care for your heart valve surgery in Gurgaon.

FAQs

Q1. What is heart valve replacement surgery, and when is it necessary?

Heart valve replacement surgery involves removing a damaged or diseased heart valve and replacing it with an artificial valve. It is typically necessary when valve repair is not possible, or the valve is severely malfunctioning, causing symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, or heart failure.

Q2. What are the differences between mechanical and biological heart valves?

Mechanical valves are made from durable materials like titanium and usually last longer but require lifelong blood-thinning medication to prevent clots. Biological valves come from animal tissue or human donors, offer a more natural blood flow, and often do not require long-term anticoagulants, but they may have a shorter lifespan.

Q3. How is valve replacement open heart surgery performed?

In valve replacement open heart surgery, the chest is opened via sternotomy, and the patient is placed on a heart-lung machine. The heart is temporarily stopped, the damaged valve is removed, and the replacement valve is sewn in. The heart is then restarted, and the chest is closed. This method is preferred for complex or multiple valve cases.

Q4. What is the recovery time after heart valve surgery?

Recovery depends on the surgical approach. For open heart surgery, hospital stay is typically 5–7 days, with several weeks for full recovery. Minimally invasive or transcatheter procedures often allow shorter hospital stays and faster recovery. Cardiac rehabilitation and gradual physical activity are important parts of recovery.

Q5. Why should I choose a specialist for heart valve surgery in Gurgaon?

Choosing an experienced cardiac surgeon with expertise in valve replacement open heart surgery and minimally invasive techniques is vital. Facilities with modern cardiac care units, advanced imaging, and a strong track record improve surgical success and recovery. Dr. Udgeath Dhir in Gurgaon is a trusted expert offering specialized care in heart valve surgery.

Blogs

Heart Valve Replacement Surgery: What You Need To Know

by
January 22, 2026

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