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Aortic Valve Surgery – Repair, Replacement & Ross Procedure

Aortic Valve Disease

Specialist Surgical Treatment for Aortic Valve Disease

Aortic Valve Surgery

The aortic valve controls blood flow from the heart into the aorta. When it becomes narrowed or does not close properly, the heart has to work harder to maintain normal circulation. Over time, this can lead to symptoms, affect heart function, and place increasing strain on the heart.

If you have been told that you have aortic valve disease, one of the key decisions is whether surgery is needed—and, if so, the right time to proceed. Mr Othman will assess the valve carefully, explain the options clearly, and recommend the approach most appropriate for your individual condition.

When assessing aortic valve disease, the following factors are taken into account:

Understanding Aortic Valve Disease

The most common forms of aortic valve disease are:

The timing of treatment depends on the severity of the valve disease, whether symptoms are present, how the heart is coping, and whether there is associated enlargement of the aorta.

When Is Surgery Recommended?

Surgery is recommended when:

Symptoms such as breathlessness, chest discomfort, or reduced exercise tolerance develop
Echocardiography shows severe aortic stenosis or regurgitation
Heart function begins to decline
There is associated enlargement of the aorta
The overall pattern of disease suggests that earlier intervention would be appropriate

The decision to proceed with surgery is discussed carefully, taking into account the expected benefits, the risks of waiting, and the approach most appropriate for your individual circumstances.

Surgical Options

The operation recommended depends on the condition of the valve, the anatomy, age, long-term considerations, and individual preferences.

Aortic Valve Replacement

Offered when the valve is too diseased to be repaired safely and effectively. The valve is replaced with either a mechanical or a biological prosthetic valve.

Aortic Valve Repair

Considered where the native valve can be preserved and restored, offering a durable result while maintaining the patient’s own valve.

The Ross Procedure

A highly specialised operation in which the patient’s own pulmonary valve is used to replace the diseased aortic valve. This may be appropriate for selected patients, depending on age, valve anatomy, and long-term treatment considerations.

The choice between repair, replacement, and the Ross procedure is based on detailed assessment and careful discussion, including the advantages and considerations of each approach, to identify the most appropriate and durable solution for each individual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need surgery now, or can my aortic valve condition be monitored?

Surgery is recommended when the condition becomes severe, symptoms develop, or there are signs that the heart is under increasing strain. The timing of intervention is carefully assessed to ensure treatment is undertaken at the most appropriate stage.

How do you decide whether repair, replacement, or the Ross procedure is best?

The choice depends on several factors, including valve anatomy, the type of valve disease, age, overall health, and long-term considerations.

Each option has specific advantages and considerations. These are discussed in detail during consultation to identify the most appropriate and durable approach for your individual situation.

What happens if I delay aortic valve surgery?

In earlier stages, monitoring may be appropriate and safe.

However, once the condition becomes severe, delaying surgery may lead to worsening symptoms or a decline in heart function. The aim is to intervene at the right time to protect long-term heart health while avoiding unnecessary early surgery.

Will surgery improve my symptoms?

Many patients experience improvement in symptoms such as breathlessness and reduced exercise tolerance after surgery.

The degree of improvement depends on the severity of the condition before surgery and overall heart function. This is discussed individually as part of your assessment.

Arranging a Consultation

If you have been diagnosed with aortic valve disease or advised that surgery may be required, specialist evaluation can provide clarity on timing and the most appropriate surgical options.