Let's learn simply about Annuloplasty, a heart valve repair surgery!

Has your doctor ever told you that "a little blood is leaking backward from a heart valve"? Or has he ever told you that this could be the reason for the pain and fatigue you feel? In fact, one of the treatments that is done in such cases is called 'Annuloplasty'. This may sound like a complicated word, but it is actually very simple. In this article, we will talk about this very simply, in a way that you can understand.

What is Annuloplasty?

To understand this, first let's talk a little about the valves in our heart. Imagine that your heart is like a house with four rooms. There are four doors between these rooms. These doors are what we call valves. These doors have a special feature. They only open in one direction. That is, after blood has passed from one room to the other, this door closes, stopping the blood from flowing back. This is what happens in a healthy heart.

But sometimes, these doors, or valves, don't close properly. It's like a broken lock on a door. What happens then? Some blood leaks back, or leaks. In medicine, we call this condition valve regurgitation . When this happens, the heart has to work harder than usual. Over time, this is not good for the heart.

In this procedure, a surgeon places a special band or ring around the ring around your heart valve (called the `annulus`) and tightens it. Think of it like putting a small frame around a door that won't close properly. After the ring is put in place, the two flaps of the valve start to close properly again. This stops the blood from leaking back almost completely.

What is an Annuloplasty Ring?

The ring used in this surgery is a special device. It can be made of a mesh-like material, metal, or plastic. It is designed to fit the natural movement and flexibility of your heart valve.

Once this is put into the heart, it's there permanently . It's never removed. It becomes part of the heart itself, helping the valve open and close properly.

Who needs this surgery?

This surgery is mainly needed for people who have the condition we discussed earlier , where blood leaks backward through a heart valve (Valve Regurgitation) . This surgery can be performed on any of the four main valves in our heart.

• Mitral Valve Annuloplasty: This is the most commonly performed type.
• Aortic Valve Annuloplasty: This procedure is also used to repair the aortic valve.
• Pulmonary Valve Annuloplasty: This is a bit rare, but is done if necessary.
• Tricuspid Valve Annuloplasty: This surgery is also successful for leaks in this valve.

Your doctor will decide whether this surgery is necessary or not by performing various tests (for example, an echocardiogram) and examining the condition of your valve.

What is the difference between Annuloplasty and Valvuloplasty?

These two words are often confused. But in this case, two completely different things are happening. Let's understand this difference clearly.

Are there other options?

Yes. Annuloplasty is not done for every valve leak. For example, for mitral valve leaks, a small clip called a `MitraClip` is sometimes used. This is done by passing a small tube through a vein. So it is a simpler procedure than surgery. Your doctor will decide what treatment is best for you.

What happens before and after the surgery?

Before surgery

Your doctor will give you clear instructions on how to prepare for the surgery.

• You are usually asked to fast (abstain from food and drink) the night before surgery.
• If you are at risk of bleeding (for example, if the bleeding takes a long time to stop), you should tell your doctor about it.
• If you are taking blood-thinning medications (such as anticoagulants), you may be asked to temporarily stop taking them a few days before surgery. This should only be done on medical advice.

During surgery

These surgeries are performed by heart surgeons. You are given general anesthesia , so you don't feel anything during the surgery, you are asleep. This surgery can be done in two main ways.

After the surgery

After the surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery area for a few hours. If you had minimally-invasive surgery, you will be able to go home in a day or two. However, if you had open-heart surgery, you may need to stay in the hospital for about seven days.

The benefits, risks, and recovery time of this surgery

What are the advantages?

• Strengthens the leaking valve.
• Blood circulation through the heart is very good.
• The heart's effort to pump blood decreases.
• For many, these results last a lifetime .

Are there any risks?

Like any surgery, there are some risks. There are some things you can do after surgery, such as infection and bleeding. But these are very rare. Your overall risk depends on your health and other heart problems.

How long does it take to heal?

This also depends on the type of surgery you had.

• It is best not to do any heavy work or strenuous activities for at least a week after surgery.
• If it's done minimally-invasively, you'll be able to go back to work in a week or two.
• But if you do a physically demanding job, you'll have to wait longer.
• Your doctor will clearly tell you what to do and what not to do during your recovery. It is very important to follow those instructions exactly.

How long does this engagement ring last?

This is a problem that many people have. This ring is designed to last for decades, 20 or 30 years without any problems . Most people will never need treatment again for this in their lifetime.

The amazing thing about this is that over time, your heart grows around this ring. That's exactly how it's supposed to be. In fact, this ring becomes a part of your heart.

What time should I see the doctor?

When you go home after surgery, you should pay close attention to your body. If you experience any of the symptoms below, you should call your doctor immediately , or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

• If you have chest pain (angina) .
• If you experience a headache or fainting (syncope) .
• If you feel like you have a fever or are shivering with cold .
• If you are feeling nauseous or vomiting .
• If there is pain or swelling that does not heal at the surgery site or in the legs.

Don't ignore these symptoms. Notifying them early can prevent a major problem from developing.