Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement (SAVR) is a well-established procedure to treat aortic valve disease, particularly aortic stenosis or aortic regurgitation. These conditions impede normal blood flow, placing undue pressure on the heart and leading to a range of cardiovascular issues. SAVR is often recommended when less invasive treatments are unsuitable or when the aortic valve is severely damaged.
What is Aortic Valve Disease?
The aortic valve controls blood flow from the heart’s left ventricle into the aorta, the main artery that supplies blood to the body. Two primary types of aortic valve disease include:
- Aortic Stenosis – A narrowing of the aortic valve, restricting blood flow.
- Aortic Regurgitation – A condition where the valve doesn’t close properly, causing blood to flow back into the heart.
These diseases often occur due to aging, congenital defects, or infection, leading to symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and fainting spells.
The SAVR Procedure
SAVR involves the complete replacement of the damaged aortic valve with a prosthetic valve. The procedure is performed through open-heart surgery, which requires the chest to be opened via a sternotomy (incision along the breastbone). The heart is temporarily stopped, and a heart-lung machine is used to maintain circulation while the surgeon removes the damaged valve and replaces it with a mechanical or biological valve.
- Mechanical Valves: Made from durable materials like titanium or carbon, these valves last longer but require lifelong blood-thinning medication.
- Biological Valves: Derived from animal tissues or human donors, these valves are less durable but don’t require long-term anticoagulation.
Indications for SAVR
SAVR is typically recommended in patients who:
- Have severe aortic stenosis or regurgitation.
- Are not suitable candidates for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), a less invasive alternative.
- Are in generally good health, making them strong candidates for major surgery.
Recovery After SAVR
Recovery from SAVR can take several weeks to months. Initially, patients may spend 5-7 days in the hospital, with the first few days in intensive care. After discharge, a structured cardiac rehabilitation program is recommended to help regain strength and improve heart function. Full recovery often takes 6-12 weeks.
Risks and Benefits
Like any major surgery, SAVR comes with risks such as infection, bleeding, stroke, and heart complications. However, for many patients, the benefits outweigh the risks, including:
- Improved quality of life.
- Increased longevity, particularly in cases of severe aortic valve disease.
- Relief from symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness.
