Mitral Valve Replacement Cost In India

Mitral Valve Replacement is a critical heart procedure designed to replace a damaged or malfunctioning mitral valve with an artificial or biological substitute. It is commonly recommended for individuals suffering from severe mitral valve stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leakage), conditions that can significantly affect heart function and overall health. For those considering this life-saving treatment, understanding the Mitral Valve Replacement Cost in India is essential to plan effectively. India is renowned for offering advanced medical care at highly competitive prices, making it a preferred destination for both domestic and international patients.

In this blog, we will explore the factors influencing the cost of Mitral Valve Replacement in India, including hospital charges, surgeon fees, and post-operative care expenses. We will also provide a list of top hospitals in India known for their excellence in performing mitral valve replacement surgeries. Whether you’re researching treatment options for yourself or a loved one, this guide will help you decide about undergoing Mitral Valve Replacement in India.

Mitral Valve Replacement Cost in India: A Comprehensive Guide

Mitral Valve Replacement (MVR) is a critical surgical procedure performed to replace a malfunctioning mitral valve in the heart. India has emerged as a preferred destination for this surgery due to its combination of high-quality medical care and cost-effectiveness. Understanding the various costs associated with MVR in India is essential for patients planning to undergo this procedure.

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Average Cost of Mitral Valve Replacement in India

The cost of MVR in India varies depending on several factors, including the type of valve used, the surgical approach, and the hospital’s location and reputation. On average, it ranges from approximately ₹275,280 to ₹515,040. 

Breakdown of Costs Involved in Mitral Valve Replacement

1. Type of Valve:
   
   • Mechanical Valves: These valves are made from durable materials like metal or carbon and can last for decades. However, patients require lifelong anticoagulant medication to prevent blood clots.
   • Biological Valves: Made from animal tissues, these valves typically last 10-20 years. The advantage is that long-term blood-thinning medication is usually not necessary.
     
2. Hospitalization Charges:
   
   • Room Charges: The type of room selected (general ward, semi-private, private, or deluxe) influences the overall cost. Private and deluxe rooms offer more comfort but at higher prices.
   • ICU Fees: Post-surgery, patients may need Intensive Care Unit services. The duration of the ICU stay, and the level of care required contribute significantly to the total expense.
     
3. Surgical Approach:
   
   • Open-Heart Surgery: This traditional method involves a large chest incision. It is generally less expensive than minimally invasive techniques. The cost of open-heart MVR in India ranges from ₹700,000 to ₹750,000. 
   • Minimally Invasive Surgery: Involves smaller incisions, leading to quicker recovery. This approach may cost more due to the advanced technology and expertise required. The cost of minimally invasive MVR in India ranges from ₹950,000 to ₹1,050,000. 
   • Robotic Surgery: Utilizes robotic systems for precision. This method is typically the most expensive due to the high-tech equipment and specialized surgical skills. The cost of robotic MVR in India ranges from ₹1,100,000 to ₹1,200,000.
     
4. Post-Operative Care:
   
   • Medications: Costs for medications, including pain relievers and antibiotics, vary based on individual patient needs.
   • Rehabilitation: Some patients may require cardiac rehabilitation programs, which add to the overall expense.

Types Of Mitral Valve Replacement & Their Costs In India

The cost of Mitral Valve Replacement (MVR) varies depending on the type of valve and the surgical approach used. Each option offers unique benefits and considerations, affecting the overall expense. Below is a detailed breakdown of the kinds of MVR and their costs in India:

1. Mechanical Valve Replacement

• Description: Mechanical valves are made of durable materials like metal or carbon and are designed to last for decades, making them a long-term solution. However, patients require lifelong anticoagulant medication to prevent blood clots.
• Cost in India: ₹300,000 to ₹700,000.
• Advantages:
  • Highly durable; minimal risk of needing another replacement.
  • Suitable for younger patients due to their long lifespan.
• Disadvantages:
  • Requires lifelong blood-thinning medication.
  • Increased risk of bleeding due to anticoagulation therapy.

2. Biological Valve Replacement (Tissue Valve)

• Description: Biological valves are made from animal tissues (usually pig or cow) or donated human heart valves. They typically last between 10-20 years.
• Cost in India: ₹2,00,000 to ₹5,00,000.
• Advantages:
  • No need for lifelong anticoagulant therapy.
  • Suitable for older patients or those with contraindications to blood-thinning medications.
• Disadvantages:
  • Shorter lifespan compared to mechanical valves.
  • Possibility of needing a replacement after a decade or two.

3. Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement (TMVR)

• Description: TMVR is a minimally invasive procedure using a catheter inserted through a blood vessel. It is typically recommended for patients who are at high risk for traditional open-heart surgery.
• Cost in India: ₹20,00,000 to ₹30,00,000.
• Advantages:
  • Shorter recovery time and minimal hospital stay.
  • Suitable for high-risk patients who cannot undergo open-heart surgery.
• Disadvantages:
  • High cost due to advanced technology and expertise required.
  • Limited long-term data on the durability of the valve.

4. Open-Heart Surgery (Traditional Method)

• Description: This is the standard approach where a large incision is made in the chest to access the heart. The damaged mitral valve is replaced with either a mechanical or biological valve.
• Cost in India: ₹1,60,000 to ₹6,00,000.
• Advantages:
  • Proven and widely used surgical technique.
  • Effective for patients with complex valve issues.
• Disadvantages:
  • Longer recovery time.
  • There is a higher risk of complications compared to minimally invasive techniques.

5. Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Replacement

• Description: This procedure involves small incisions, reducing recovery time and hospital stays. It requires advanced surgical tools and expertise.
• Cost in India: ₹2,55,000 to ₹9,00,000.
• Advantages:
  • Faster recovery with less scarring.
  • Lower risk of infections compared to traditional open-heart surgery.
• Disadvantages:
  • Requires advanced surgical equipment and specialized surgeons.
  • It may not be suitable for all patients with severe valve issues.

6. Robotic-Assisted Mitral Valve Replacement

• Description: This advanced procedure uses robotic systems to perform the surgery with precision. It is a minimally invasive approach and ideal for patients who meet specific criteria.
• Cost in India: ₹1,50,000 to ₹11,00,000.
• Advantages:
  • Extremely precise with minimal tissue damage.
  • Faster recovery and reduced hospital stay.
• Disadvantages:
  • Very high cost due to robotic technology.
  • Limited availability of specialized surgeons and equipment.

Comparison Table for Types of MVR and Their Costs in India

Type of Procedure	Cost Range (INR)	Key Features
Mechanical Valve Replacement	₹300,000 – ₹700,000	Durable, require lifelong anticoagulation.
Biological Valve Replacement	₹2,00,000 to ₹5,00,000	No anticoagulation is needed, and there is a shorter valve lifespan.
Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement (TMVR)	₹20,00,000 to ₹30,00,000	Minimally invasive for high-risk patients.
Open-Heart Surgery	₹1,60,000 to ₹6,00,000	Traditional, widely used, longer recovery.
Minimally Invasive Surgery	₹2,55,000 to ₹9,00,000	Less invasive, faster recovery.
Robotic-Assisted Surgery	₹1,50,000 to ₹11,00,000	High precision, minimal recovery time.

By understanding the options available, patients can choose the procedure that best suits their medical and financial situation. For a more comprehensive overview of treatment and surgery costs across India, you can refer to our Comprehensive Guide To Treatment & Surgery Costs In India.

Cost Of Mitral Valve Replacement In Different Indian Cities

The cost of Mitral Valve Replacement (MVR) surgery in India varies based on the hospital’s location, the surgeon’s expertise, the type of valve used, and the patient’s overall health. Below is a comparative overview of MVR costs across different Indian cities:

Mitral Valve Replacement Surgery Costs in Indian Cities

City	Average Cost (INR)	Starting Price (INR)	Maximum Price (INR)
Bangalore	185,000	70,000	300,000
Chennai	175,750	66,500	285,000
Delhi	194,250	73,500	315,000
Gurgaon	185,000	70,000	300,000
Hyderabad	185,000	70,000	300,000
Mumbai	203,500	77,000	330,000
Pune	185,000	70,000	300,000

Factors Influencing the Mitral Valve Replacement Cost In India

The cost of Mitral Valve Replacement (MVR) surgery in India can vary depending on several factors. Here are the main factors that influence the cost:

1. Type of Valve Used:
   
   • Mechanical Valve: These valves are made of durable materials and last longer, but they require the patient to take blood thinners for life. The cost of a mechanical valve is higher, which can increase the overall surgery cost.
   • Biological (Tissue) Valve: These valves are made from animal or human tissue and typically last 10-20 years. They are generally less expensive than mechanical valves but may need to be replaced sooner.
     
2. Hospital and Location:
   
   • The hospital you choose can impact the cost. Private hospitals in big cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore may charge more due to their advanced facilities and experienced surgeons.
   • Government hospitals or hospitals in smaller cities may offer more affordable treatment options.
     
3. Surgeon’s Expertise:
   
   • The experience and reputation of the surgeon performing the procedure can affect the cost. Highly experienced and renowned surgeons may charge higher fees.
     
4. Pre-Surgery Tests and Consultations:
   
   • Before surgery, several tests, such as ECGs, blood tests, imaging, and other diagnostic procedures, may be needed. These tests can increase the overall cost of the treatment.
     
5. Type of Surgery (Open Heart or Minimally Invasive):
   
   • Open Heart Surgery: This method requires a larger incision and more recovery time. Due to its complexity, it can be more expensive.
   • Minimally Invasive Surgery: Some hospitals offer minimally invasive techniques that involve smaller cuts and faster recovery. These techniques can lower the overall cost, but they might not be available in all cases.
     
6. Post-Surgery Care:
   
   • The cost of post-operative care, including ICU stays, medications, and follow-up visits, can add to the total cost of the surgery. If any complications arise, this may increase the price further.
     
7. Insurance Coverage:
   
   • If you have health insurance, it can help reduce the out-of-pocket cost. Some insurance policies cover a significant portion of the surgery cost, including the hospital stay, surgery fees, and medications.
     
8. Hospital Facilities and Services:
   
   • The quality of hospital facilities, like private rooms, nursing care, and advanced medical equipment, can influence the cost. Higher-end facilities typically charge more for the same procedure.

Many factors affecting the cost of Mitral Valve Replacement also play a role in determining the cost of Aortic Valve Replacement in India. These factors include the hospital, surgeon’s experience, and type of surgery. For further details on various surgery costs in India, check out our Comprehensive Guide To Treatment & Surgery Costs In India.

Best Hospitals For Mitral Valve Replacement In India

1) Max Super Speciality Hospital

Name and Location: Max Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi, Delhi
Introduction: Max Super Speciality Hospital is one of India’s leading healthcare providers, established in 2001. It is known for its comprehensive multi-specialty care and cutting-edge medical technology. Guided by the vision to create a world-class healthcare system, its mission is to deliver the best care while setting benchmarks in clinical excellence.

Achievements in Mitral Valve Replacement

Milestones:

• Among the first hospitals in India to introduce minimally invasive techniques for mitral valve replacement.
• Successfully performed several complex mitral valve replacements, including high-risk cases involving elderly patients and comorbidities.

Innovations:

• Transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR) is used for patients unsuitable for traditional surgery.
• Integration of robotic-assisted surgery for enhanced precision in valve replacement.

Volume of Procedures:

• Conducts approximately 500+ mitral valve replacement surgeries annually, making it one of the highest volumes in India.

Success Rates:

• Reports a success rate of over 95% for mitral valve replacement procedures, with excellent patient outcomes and minimal complications.

Accreditations:

• Joint Commission International (JCI)
• National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH)

Awards:

• Recognized as one of the “Best Hospitals for Cardiology” by the Times of India.
• Awarded for Excellence in Healthcare by FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry).
• Ranked among India’s top hospitals for cardiac care in several healthcare rankings.

2) Medanta – The Medicity

Medanta – The Medicity is a premier multi-specialty medical institution in Gurgaon, Haryana, India. Established in 2009 by renowned cardiovascular and cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Naresh Trehan, Medanta aims to deliver world-class healthcare by integrating modern medicine with traditional ethics. The hospital’s mission is to provide comprehensive medical services through innovation and excellence, striving to set the highest standards in patient care.

Achievements in Mitral Valve Replacement

Milestones: Medanta has been at the forefront of introducing advanced procedures in India, including successfully implementing Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement (TMVR), offering a less invasive option for patients.

Innovations: The hospital employs cutting-edge techniques such as TMVR and robotic-assisted surgeries, enhancing precision and patient outcomes in mitral valve replacements.

Volume of Procedures: While specific annual figures are not publicly disclosed, Medanta is recognized for handling a high volume of complex cardiac surgeries, including mitral valve replacements, reflecting its extensive experience and expertise.

Success Rates: The hospital reports high success rates for mitral valve replacement procedures, which it attributes to its skilled medical team and state-of-the-art technology.

Accreditations:

• National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH)
• National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)

Awards:

• Ranked as the Best Private Hospital in India for five consecutive years (2020-2024) by Newsweek.
• Featured among the top 250 hospitals worldwide in Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals Survey 2024.
• Recognized in multiple categories in the Times Health Survey 2022.

3) Apollo Hospitals

Name and Location: Apollo Hospitals, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Introduction: Apollo Hospitals, established in 1983 by Dr. Prathap C. Reddy, is one of Asia’s foremost integrated healthcare providers. Based in Chennai, it was the first corporate hospital in India and has since grown to be a pioneer in healthcare innovation and excellence. With a vision of “Touching Lives,” Apollo’s mission is to bring quality healthcare within everyone’s reach through state-of-the-art technology and clinical expertise.

Achievements in Mitral Valve Replacement

Milestones:

• Apollo Hospitals was among the first in India to perform minimally invasive mitral valve replacement surgeries, reducing recovery time and complications.
• Achieved significant milestones in treating complex mitral valve cases, including high-risk and re-do surgeries.
• Successfully conducted India’s first robotic-assisted mitral valve replacement.

Innovations:

• Pioneered robotic and minimally invasive mitral valve replacement techniques.
• Introduced advanced transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) procedures, especially for patients with co-morbidities unsuited for traditional open-heart surgeries.
• Adoption of 3D imaging technology to enhance surgical precision and patient outcomes.

Volume of Procedures:

• The hospital performs over 1,000 mitral valve replacement surgeries annually, including high-risk and complicated cases, making it one of the highest in India.

Success Rates:

• Maintains a success rate of over 96% for mitral valve replacement procedures, with low complication rates and superior long-term outcomes.

Accreditations:

• Joint Commission International (JCI)
• National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH)

Awards:

• Recognized as “Best Multispecialty Hospital” in India by The Week and Times of India multiple times.
• Honored with the Frost & Sullivan India Healthcare Excellence Award.
• Named among the “Top 10 Global Hospitals for Medical Tourism” by the Medical Travel Quality Alliance (MTQUA).
• Recipient of the Healthcare Provider of the Year Award at FICCI Healthcare Excellence Awards.
  

4) Fortis Escorts Heart Institute

Name and Location: Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, New Delhi, Delhi
Introduction: Established in 1988, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute is a premier cardiac care facility in New Delhi, India. It has pioneered heart care in India, offering comprehensive cardiac services with a patient-centered approach. The institute is renowned for its cutting-edge medical procedures and has made substantial contributions to cardiology. 

Achievements in Mitral Valve Replacement

Milestones:

• Fortis Escorts Heart Institute has been a leader in introducing advanced cardiac procedures in India, including pioneering minimally invasive mitral valve replacement surgeries. 

Innovations:

• The hospital has introduced innovative treatments, such as the MitraClip procedure, which offers a less invasive option for patients with mitral valve regurgitation. 

Volume of Procedures:

• While specific annual figures for mitral valve replacement surgeries are not publicly disclosed, the hospital is recognized for handling a high volume of complex cardiac surgeries, including mitral valve replacements. 

Success Rates:

• Fortis Escorts Heart Institute maintains high success rates for mitral valve replacement procedures, attributed to its skilled medical team and state-of-the-art technology. 

Accreditations:

• Joint Commission International (JCI)

Awards:

• Best Hospital in Cardiology by Times Healthcare Achievers Awards
• Excellence in Healthcare by the Association of Healthcare Providers of India (AHPI)
• Best Hospital in Cardiology by ICICI Lombard & CNBC TV18
• Best Cardiology Hospital in India by The Week
• Gold Award in Healthcare Delivery Brand by IHW Awards
• Awarded as Best Hospital in Cardiology – National by Economic Times Healthcare Awards
• Featured in Newsweek Best Hospitals 2021 for cardiology specialty

5) Asian Heart Institute

Name and Location: Asian Heart Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra

Introduction: Founded in 2002 by Dr. Ramakanta Panda, the Asian Heart Institute (AHI) is a leading cardiac care facility in Mumbai, India. Over the past two decades, AHI has treated over 450,000 patients, establishing itself as a pioneer in heart care. 

Achievements in Mitral Valve Replacement

Milestones:

• AHI has pioneered advanced cardiac procedures in India, including pioneering minimally invasive mitral valve replacement surgeries.

Innovations:

• The hospital has introduced innovative treatments, such as the MitraClip procedure, which offers a less invasive option for patients with mitral valve regurgitation.

Volume of Procedures:

• While specific annual figures for mitral valve replacement surgeries are not publicly disclosed, the hospital is recognized for handling a high volume of complex cardiac surgeries, including mitral valve replacements.

Accreditations:

• Joint Commission International (JCI) Gold Accreditation (6 times)
• National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH)

Awards:

• Recognized as the “Best Heart Hospital” in Mumbai by various healthcare forums.
• Honored with the “Best Cardiac Care Hospital” award by the Times Healthcare Achievers Awards.
• Featured in the “Top 10 Heart Hospitals in India” by India Today.

6) Narayana Institute of Cardiac Sciences

Name and Location: Narayana Institute of Cardiac Sciences, Bommasandra, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India

Introduction: Established in 2000 by Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty, Narayana Institute of Cardiac Sciences is a flagship cardiac hospital of the Narayana Health group. The institute is renowned for providing high-quality cardiac care at affordable prices, focusing on complex cardiac surgeries and heart transplantation. It is equipped with 23 dedicated cardiac operation theatres and five digital catheterization laboratories, including a hybrid lab capable of performing both interventional procedures and complex heart surgeries. 

Achievements in Mitral Valve Replacement

Milestones:

• In March 2024, Narayana Institute of Cardiac Sciences performed the world’s first mitral valve replacement using the SSi Mantra surgical robotic system, marking a significant advancement in robotic-assisted cardiac surgeries. 

Innovations:

• The hospital has pioneered the use of the SSi Mantra surgical robotic system in mitral valve surgeries, which enhances precision and reduces patients’ recovery times. 

Volume of Procedures:

• Narayana Institute of Cardiac Sciences can perform up to 60 heart surgeries per day, including complex mitral valve replacements. 

Success Rates:

• The institute maintains high success rates in mitral valve surgeries, with patient outcomes generally exceeding national averages. 

Accreditations:

• Joint Commission International (JCI)
• National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH)

Awards:

• Best Single Specialty Hospital in India, Cardiology, in the CNBC TV 18 & ICICI Lombard India Healthcare Award 2015–2016. 
• First Artificial Heart Transplant in Asia in 2018.

7) Manipal Hospitals

Name and Location: Manipal Hospital, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India

Introduction: Established in 1991, Manipal Hospital, Sarjapur Road, is a leading multispecialty healthcare facility in Bengaluru. It is part of the Manipal Health Enterprises, a network of hospitals known for providing high-quality medical care across India. The hospital offers a wide range of services, including advanced cardiac care, and has state-of-the-art infrastructure and technology.

Achievements in Mitral Valve Replacement

Milestones:

• Manipal Hospital, Sarjapur Road, has successfully performed numerous mitral valve replacement surgeries, establishing itself as a center of excellence in cardiac care.

Innovations:

• The hospital utilizes advanced surgical techniques and technologies, including minimally invasive procedures, to enhance patient outcomes in mitral valve surgeries.

Accreditations:

• National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH)
• National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)

Awards:

• In 2019, Manipal Hospital, Sarjapur Road, received the Excellence in Healthcare Operations award.

8) Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

Name and Location: Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Andheri West, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Introduction: Established in 2009, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital is a multi-specialty tertiary care facility in Mumbai, India. Named after Kokilaben Ambani, the wife of industrialist Dhirubhai Ambani, the hospital offers various medical services, including advanced cardiac care. It is part of the Reliance Group and has state-of-the-art infrastructure and technology. 

Achievements in Mitral Valve Replacement

Milestones:

• Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital has successfully performed numerous mitral valve replacement surgeries, establishing itself as a center of excellence in cardiac care.

Innovations:

• The hospital offers minimally invasive valve replacement surgeries, including key-hole surgery and beating heart coronary artery bypass grafting, enhancing patient recovery and outcomes. 

Accreditations:

• Joint Commission International (JCI) Accreditation
• National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH)
• National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)
• College of American Pathologists (CAP) Accreditation 

Awards:

• Best Multispeciality Hospital Western Region Award at ET Health Awards 2021 
• Best Multispeciality Hospital in Mumbai at the NavaBharat Healthcare Awards 2021 
• Best Hospital for Advanced Technology at the Healthcare Excellence Awards

9) Jaypee Hospital

Name and Location: Jaypee Hospital, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India

Introduction: Established in 2015, Jaypee Hospital is a multi-specialty tertiary care hospital located in Noida, Uttar Pradesh. It is part of the Jaypee Group and offers a wide range of medical services, including advanced cardiac care. The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure and technology and provides comprehensive healthcare services to patients.

Achievements in Mitral Valve Replacement

Milestones:

• Jaypee Hospital has successfully performed numerous mitral valve replacement surgeries, establishing itself as a center of excellence in cardiac care. 

Innovations:

• The hospital offers minimally invasive valve replacement surgeries, including key-hole surgery and beating heart coronary artery bypass grafting, enhancing patient recovery and outcomes. 

Accreditations:

• National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH)
• National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)

Awards:

• Jaypee Hospital was awarded the Achiever Emerging Multi-Specialty Hospital Award in 2018.

10) Aster CMI Hospital

Name and Location: Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, Karnataka, India

Introduction: Aster CMI Hospital, established in 2014, is a multi-specialty tertiary care hospital in Bangalore, Karnataka. It is part of the Aster DM Healthcare Group, a leading healthcare provider in the Middle East and India. The hospital offers a wide range of medical services, including advanced cardiac care, and has state-of-the-art infrastructure and technology.

Achievements in Mitral Valve Replacement

Milestones:

• Aster CMI Hospital has been recognized for its expertise in cardiac surgeries, including mitral valve replacement procedures.

Innovations:

• The hospital offers minimally invasive cardiac surgeries, including robotic-assisted mitral valve repair, enhancing patient recovery and outcomes.

Accreditations:

• Joint Commission International (JCI) Accreditation
• National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH)
• National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)
• NABH Digital Standards Platinum Accreditation is the highest in South India, making it the first hospital in Karnataka to achieve this status.

Awards:

• Best Hospital for Cardiology in South India, 2020, by Global Health and Pharma
• Best Multispecialty Hospital in Bangalore, 2020, by Times of India
• Best Hospital for Quality and Excellence in Healthcare, 2021, by Times of India

Mitral Valve Replacement Procedure Steps

Mitral Valve Replacement (MVR) is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or diseased mitral valve is replaced with a new one. The mitral valve is between the left atrium and the left ventricle of the heart. If it doesn’t work properly, it can cause blood to flow backward into the lungs, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and heart problems.

The MVR procedure usually follows these steps:

1. Preparation for Surgery: Patients are given general anesthesia before the surgery, meaning they will be asleep and pain-free. The doctor will also perform tests such as ECG, blood tests, and imaging to understand the heart’s condition.
   
2. Incision and Accessing the Heart: The surgeon makes an incision in the chest, usually through the breastbone, to access the heart. This may involve splitting the breastbone to provide better access.
   
3. Cardiopulmonary Bypass: A heart-lung machine (cardiopulmonary bypass) is used to prevent the heart from pumping blood during surgery. This machine takes over the function of the heart and lungs, ensuring oxygen is still circulated throughout the body.
   
4. Removal of the Damaged Valve: The surgeon then removes the damaged mitral valve. Depending on the patient’s age, health, and preferences, the valve may be replaced with either a mechanical or a biological (tissue) valve.
   
5. Implanting the New Valve: The new valve is carefully sewn into place. The surgeon ensures that it functions properly and that there are no leaks.
   
6. Closure of the Chest: Once the new valve is in place, the heart is restarted, and the heart-lung machine is disconnected. The chest is then closed using stitches or staples, and the patient is moved to the recovery room.
   
7. Post-Operative Care: After surgery, the patient will spend some time in the intensive care unit (ICU) for monitoring. The recovery period can vary, but the patient is usually encouraged to walk and breathe deeply to prevent complications.

Mitral Valve Replacement Surgery Success Rate

The success rate of mitral valve replacement surgery is generally very high, with most patients experiencing good outcomes. The exact success rate can vary based on factors like the patient’s age, overall health, and the type of valve used.

• Overall Success Rate: Studies show that the success rate of MVR surgery is about 95-98%.
• Complications: While rare, some patients may experience complications like infection, bleeding, or valve malfunction. However, with modern surgical techniques, these risks have been minimized.
• Long-Term Outlook: Most patients experience improved symptoms and quality of life. The survival rate 10 years after surgery is generally high, with many patients living longer, healthier lives.

Conclusion

Mitral Valve Replacement is a life-saving procedure for individuals with severe mitral valve problems. While it may sound complex, the surgery is widely performed with excellent results. With advancements in surgical techniques and the availability of different types of valves, patients can look forward to a better quality of life after the surgery. Like all surgeries, there are risks, but these are manageable with proper care and attention from healthcare providers.

A crowdfunding platform can be a helpful solution for those who face financial difficulties. These platforms allow people to raise funds from friends, family, and even strangers to cover medical expenses. By sharing their stories, patients can get the support they need to manage the cost of Mitral Valve Replacement surgery and focus on recovery without the added stress of financial concerns. 

FAQs Related to Mitral Valve Replacement

1. Is Mitral Valve Replacement Dangerous?

Mitral Valve Replacement is a major surgery, but it is generally safe when performed by a skilled surgical team. As with any surgery, there are risks such as infection, bleeding, or complications from anesthesia. However, the success rate is high, and most patients recover well with proper care. The risks are usually outweighed by the benefits of improving heart function and quality of life.

2. Can Mitral Valve Be Replaced Without Open Heart Surgery?

Yes, in some cases, mitral valve replacement can be done with minimally invasive techniques, such as through small incisions or using robotic-assisted surgery. These techniques do not require splitting the breastbone; recovery times can be shorter. However, the suitability of this method depends on the patient’s condition and the surgeon’s expertise.

3. How Long Does Mitral Valve Replacement Last?

The longevity of a mitral valve replacement depends on the type of valve used. Mechanical valves can last for 20-30 years or more, but they require lifelong blood thinners to prevent blood clots. Biological valves, made from animal or human tissue, usually last 10-20 years, and they may not require long-term blood thinners but may need to be replaced sooner.

4. What Is Mitral Valve Replacement?

Mitral Valve Replacement is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or diseased mitral valve in the heart is replaced with a new valve. The procedure is typically performed when the mitral valve cannot be repaired and is causing significant symptoms or health issues like heart failure. The surgery aims to restore normal blood flow through the heart and relieve symptoms.