Aortic valve repair is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting dysfunctions in the aortic valve, which regulates blood flow from the heart to the aorta and subsequently the rest of the body. Unlike valve replacement, where the valve is replaced with a mechanical or biological substitute, repair focuses on preserving the patient's native valve by adjusting or reconstructing the damaged parts. This may involve techniques such as reshaping the valve leaflets, reinforcing the valve ring, or patching holes in the valve. Aortic valve repair is preferred over replacement when feasible because it retains the natural valve structure, reducing the need for lifelong blood thinners and minimizing complications associated with prosthetic valves. The need for aortic valve repair typically arises from conditions like aortic regurgitation, where the valve does not close properly, causing blood to flow backward into the heart, or aortic stenosis, where the valve becomes narrowed, restricting blood flow. These conditions can result from congenital heart defects, infections such as endocarditis, or degenerative changes due to aging. Symptoms that lead to the diagnosis of aortic valve dysfunction include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, fainting (syncope), and heart palpitations. If left untreated, these symptoms can worsen, potentially leading to heart failure or other serious complications. Aortic valve repair can significantly improve a patient's quality of life by restoring normal blood flow and alleviating symptoms, while also offering a lower risk of infection or long-term complications compared to valve replacement.
