Mitral Valve Replacement: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Procedure, and Recovery

What is Mitral Valve Replacement?

Mitral valve replacement is a heart surgery. Doctors use this procedure to replace a damaged mitral valve with a new one. The mitral valve helps control blood flow between the heart’s left chambers. When it does not work well, blood may not move as it should. In many cases, mitral valve replacement surgery can improve heart function and quality of life. This treatment is common in the United States and worldwide.

Symptoms Indicating the Need for Mitral Valve Replacement

Sometimes, people do not notice symptoms at first. However, as the valve problem gets worse, you may feel:

Shortness of breath, especially during activity or when lying down

Fatigue or feeling tired easily

Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet

Irregular or fast heartbeat

Chest pain or discomfort

Frequent coughing, sometimes with pink or bloody mucus

Because these symptoms can be caused by other problems, it is important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis.

Causes Leading to Mitral Valve Replacement

Many conditions can damage the mitral valve. For example, you may need mitral valve replacement if you have:

Mitral valve stenosis (narrowing of the valve)

Mitral valve regurgitation (leaky valve)

Rheumatic fever, which can scar the valve

Infections such as endocarditis

Age-related changes or wear and tear

Birth defects affecting the heart valve

In some cases, doctors may try other treatments first. But if these do not work, heart valve replacement procedure may be needed.

Diagnosis: How Doctors Assess Mitral Valve Problems

Doctors use several tests to check your heart and mitral valve. First, they will ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they may use:

Physical exam to listen for heart murmurs

Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) to see the valve

Electrocardiogram (ECG) to check heart rhythm

Chest X-ray to look at heart size and lungs

Cardiac MRI or CT scan for detailed images

Blood tests to check for infection or other issues

After these tests, your doctor will decide if mitral valve disease treatment or surgery is right for you.

The Mitral Valve Replacement Procedure: Step-by-Step

Mitral valve replacement surgery is done in a hospital. Here is what usually happens:

You receive anesthesia, so you sleep during the surgery.

The surgeon makes a cut in your chest to reach the heart.

Your heart is connected to a heart-lung machine, which takes over pumping blood.

The damaged mitral valve is removed.

A new valve, either mechanical or made from animal tissue, is put in place.

The surgeon checks the new valve and closes the chest.

Sometimes, doctors use less invasive methods, such as small cuts or robotic tools. Your doctor will choose the best option for you.

Recovery and Aftercare

After mitral valve replacement, you will stay in the hospital for several days. During this time, nurses and doctors will watch your heart and help you recover. Once you go home, you should:

Take medicines as prescribed

Attend follow-up visits with your doctor

Slowly return to normal activities

Eat a heart-healthy diet

Join a cardiac rehab program if advised

Recovery after mitral valve replacement can take weeks or months. However, most people feel better over time. Always tell your doctor if you notice new symptoms.

Risks and Possible Complications

Like all surgeries, mitral valve replacement has some risks. Although most people do well, possible complications include:

Bleeding or infection

Blood clots

Stroke

Problems with the new valve

Irregular heartbeats

Reaction to anesthesia

Your doctor will discuss these risks with you before surgery. Following aftercare instructions can help lower your risk.

Prevention and Lifestyle Tips

While you cannot always prevent valve problems, you can protect your heart by:

Managing high blood pressure and diabetes

Not smoking

Eating a balanced diet

Exercising regularly

Seeing your doctor for regular check-ups

Treating infections quickly

Because some valve problems are genetic, talk to your doctor if you have a family history of heart disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a mitral valve replacement last?

Mechanical valves can last many years, sometimes for life. Tissue valves may need to be replaced after 10–20 years.

Will I need to take blood thinners?

Yes, if you have a mechanical valve, you will likely need blood thinners. Your doctor will explain your medicine needs.

Can I live a normal life after surgery?

Most people return to normal activities. However, you should follow your doctor’s advice and attend regular check-ups.

Is mitral valve replacement safe?

While all surgeries have risks, this procedure is common and usually safe. Your heart team will help keep you safe.

Consult a cardiologist Dr. Ketika Potey clinic for personalized advice on mitral valve replacement.