Heart valve disease occurs when one or more of the heart’s valves do not function properly. This may result in obstruction of blood flow (stenosis) or leakage of blood backward (regurgitation). When valve dysfunction becomes severe and symptomatic, heart valve repair or replacement surgery may be recommended.
If you are evaluating options for heart valve replacement in Chandigarh, the appropriate first step is consultation with a qualified cardiologist and cardiothoracic surgeon practicing at a hospital with established cardiac surgical and intensive care facilities.
Understanding Heart Valve Disease
The human heart has four valves:
- Mitral valve
- Aortic valve
- Tricuspid valve
- Pulmonary valve
These valves regulate unidirectional blood flow through the heart chambers. Valve disease may develop due to:
- Rheumatic heart disease
- Degenerative (age-related) changes
- Congenital abnormalities
- Infection (infective endocarditis)
- Calcification
- Connective tissue disorders
Patients requiring Valve Replacement Surgery in Chandigarh often present with advanced structural valve damage that cannot be managed through medical therapy alone.
Symptoms That May Indicate Severe Valve Disease
Patients with advanced valve dysfunction may experience:
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Swelling in the legs
- Palpitations
- Chest discomfort
- Episodes of fainting (especially in aortic stenosis)
Diagnosis typically involves:
- Clinical examination
- Echocardiography
- ECG
- Chest imaging
- Cardiac catheterization (in selected cases)
Early evaluation by the Best Cardiologist Surgeon in Chandigarh plays a key role in identifying disease severity and determining the optimal timing for intervention.
When Is Valve Replacement Recommended?
Surgical valve replacement may be advised when:
- The valve disease is severe
- Symptoms are affecting daily activities
- There is progressive decline in heart function
- Medical therapy is insufficient
- Risk of complications (heart failure, arrhythmia) increases
The decision is individualized and based on echocardiographic findings, patient age, co-morbidities, and surgical risk assessment.
Types of Valve Replacement
1. Mechanical Valves
- Made of durable synthetic materials
- Long lifespan
- Require lifelong anticoagulation
2. Bioprosthetic (Tissue) Valves
- Made from animal tissue
- Limited lifespan compared to mechanical valves
- Usually require shorter-duration anticoagulation
The choice depends on patient age, lifestyle considerations, and medical suitability.
Surgical Approaches
Valve surgery may be performed using:
- Conventional open-heart surgery
- Minimally invasive cardiac surgery in Chandigarh (in selected cases)
- Valve repair (where feasible, preferred in certain mitral valve cases)
Not all patients are candidates for minimally invasive techniques. Suitability is determined after detailed evaluation.
About Dr. Ashwani Bansal
Dr. Ashwani Bansal holds:
- MBBS – AIIMS, New Delhi
- MS – AIIMS, New Delhi
- MCh (Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery) – AIIMS, New Delhi
He received structured cardiothoracic surgical training at AIIMS, New Delhi, including exposure to complex valve surgeries, heart failure surgery, and transplant-related procedures. He also received training in minimally invasive cardiac surgery techniques.
Dr. Bansal performs adult cardiac surgeries, including valve replacement and repair procedures, at accredited hospitals equipped with cardiac surgery and ICU facilities.
Post-Operative Care and Follow-Up
After valve replacement, patients require:
- ICU monitoring
- Medication management (including anticoagulation, when indicated)
- Periodic echocardiographic follow-up
- Lifestyle modification guidance
Long-term follow-up is essential to monitor valve function and overall cardiac health.
Conclusion
Heart valve replacement is a major cardiac procedure indicated in carefully selected patients with severe valve disease. Individuals in Chandigarh and nearby regions should seek consultation with a qualified cardiologist and cardiothoracic surgeon to determine whether surgical intervention is required and to discuss the most appropriate treatment approach.