Dissected Aortic Valve Replacement

[Aunt Granny]

I hope yall can understand this question. I have read alot about the heart surgery that they do not have to break the breast bone. I was wondering if they have to do a "dissection" of the aoritc vavle can this still be done with the small incision, or will it have to be the full blown "open heart surgery"? I think I proably know the answer, but I am hoping NOT!

 

[Ross]

As far as I know, they must do the full blown opening for this. I haven't heard of any aortic surgery the other way.

 

[bvdr]

Aunt Granny,

When I had the "heartport " done for my Mitral Valve Replacement there was the possibility of my aortic valve also being replaced. My surgeon told me if he found that to be the case he would have to also open my sternum.

 

[Aunt Granny]

Thanks guies. You confirmed what I was hoping to avoid. Oh Well!