Heart Valve Replacement/Repair in Mumbai | SL Raheja Hospital
SL Raheja Hospital in Mumbai offers expert heart valve repair and replacement surgery. Cardiology care at Mahim for stenosis, regurgitation & valve disease.
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What is heart valve repair or replacement surgery?
Heart valve repair or replacement is a cardiac surgical procedure that corrects damaged or diseased heart valves — those that have become stiff (stenosis) or leaky (regurgitation) — to restore normal blood flow through the heart. SL Raheja Hospital in Mumbai offers cardiology care including heart valve surgery at its Mahim facility, using both traditional open-heart and minimally invasive approaches.
The heart contains four valves — the tricuspid, pulmonary, mitral, and aortic — each responsible for keeping blood flowing in the correct direction between the heart's chambers and major vessels. When one or more valves fail to open or close properly, the heart must work harder, and blood may flow backwards. Surgical repair or replacement restores valve function and relieves the strain on the heart muscle.
Tip: Valve disease can develop gradually. If you experience unexplained breathlessness, chest pain, or swelling in the legs, consult a cardiologist at SL Raheja Hospital, Mahim, for a timely evaluation.
Who needs heart valve repair or replacement surgery?
Your cardiologist at SL Raheja Hospital, Mahim may recommend valve repair or replacement when valve disease causes significant symptoms or places the heart under sustained stress. Common indications include:
- Dizziness or light-headedness linked to reduced cardiac output
- Chest pain that occurs with activity or at rest
- Breathing difficulties, including shortness of breath during exertion or when lying flat
- Heart palpitations — irregular or rapid heartbeat
- Swelling (oedema) of the feet, ankles, or abdomen
- Rapid weight gain caused by fluid retention
- Valve stiffness (stenosis) resulting from infection such as rheumatic fever or age-related calcification
- Leaky valve (regurgitation) causing backward blood flow and reduced forward circulation
Warning: Untreated severe valve disease can lead to heart failure or life-threatening arrhythmias. Do not delay evaluation if you experience any of the symptoms listed above.
The decision to proceed with surgery is based on your symptoms, the severity of valve dysfunction, and the overall condition of your heart as assessed by your healthcare provider.
How is heart valve surgery performed at SL Raheja Hospital?
Heart valve repair or replacement at SL Raheja Hospital in Mumbai follows a structured process from pre-operative preparation through to post-operative monitoring. The steps below reflect standard open-heart valve surgery; minimally invasive approaches use smaller incisions but follow a similar sequence.
- Pre-operative assessment: A complete health history, physical examination, blood tests, and diagnostic imaging are completed. Medications that affect blood clotting may be paused. Patients are asked to fast before surgery and to disclose all current medicines, allergies, and implanted cardiac devices.
- Anaesthesia and monitoring lines: General anaesthesia is administered. Intravenous lines and arterial catheters are placed to monitor heart rate, blood pressure, and blood oxygen continuously throughout the procedure.
- Airway management: A breathing tube is inserted and connected to a ventilator. A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) probe is placed in the oesophagus to monitor valve function in real time.
- Chest opening: For open-heart surgery, an incision is made down the centre of the chest and the sternum (breastbone) is divided to expose the heart. Minimally invasive approaches use smaller incisions.
- Cardiopulmonary bypass: Tubes are inserted so that a heart-lung bypass machine takes over circulation. The heart is then stopped using a cold solution, allowing the surgeon to work on the valve.
- Valve repair or replacement: For repair, the surgeon may separate fused valve leaflets, mend torn leaflets, or reshape valve components. For replacement, the diseased valve is removed and an artificial valve — made of carbon-coated plastic or biological tissue — is implanted.
- Restarting the heart: The heart is restarted using small electrical paddles. Blood from the bypass machine re-enters the heart. The surgical team verifies valve function and checks for leaks.
- Closure: The sternum is wired back together, drainage tubes are placed around the heart, and the chest incision is closed with sutures or surgical staples. A sterile dressing is applied.
- Transfer to ICU: The patient is moved to the intensive care unit for close monitoring of cardiac rhythm, blood pressure, breathing, and fluid balance.
What are the surgical approaches for heart valve surgery?
Heart valve surgery can be performed through different techniques. The approach chosen depends on the valve affected, the patient's overall health, and the nature of the valve problem. The table below outlines the key differences.
| Approach | Incision | Hospital Stay | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Open-Heart Surgery | Full sternotomy — incision from below the Adam's apple to above the navel | Several days or longer in hospital | Provides full surgical access; suitable for complex or multiple valve disease |
| Minimally Invasive Surgery | Smaller incisions in the chest | Generally shorter than open surgery | Less post-operative pain and reduced scarring; not suitable for all patients |
Your cardiac surgeon at SL Raheja Hospital, Mahim will discuss which approach is appropriate based on your specific valve condition, heart function, and medical history. Use the booking form on this page to arrange a consultation.
What does recovery look like after heart valve surgery?
Recovery after heart valve repair or replacement at SL Raheja Hospital in Mumbai is a gradual process that begins in the ICU and continues at home. Timelines vary depending on the surgical approach and the patient's overall health.
- Immediate post-operative period (ICU): You will be monitored continuously for cardiac rhythm, blood pressure, breathing rate, and oxygen levels. A ventilator assists breathing until you are stable enough to breathe independently.
- Breathing tube removal: Once you are awake and able to breathe and cough on your own, the breathing tube is removed. You will be encouraged to cough and take deep breaths every couple of hours to prevent mucus build-up and reduce the risk of pneumonia.
- Transition from ICU to post-surgical ward: When your condition stabilises, you are moved to a general cardiac recovery ward. IV medications are gradually reduced and discontinued as your heart function improves.
- Resuming oral intake: Liquids are introduced first, followed by solid foods as tolerated.
- Increasing mobility: Activity is increased progressively — from sitting up in bed to short walks — under the supervision of the nursing and physiotherapy team.
- Discharge planning: Before discharge, your healthcare team will arrange a follow-up appointment and provide guidance on wound care, activity restrictions, and medications.
- Home recovery: Full recovery from open-heart valve surgery typically takes several weeks. Sternal healing requires particular care — avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity until cleared by your surgeon.
Tip: Hugging a pillow firmly against your chest while coughing after surgery helps reduce discomfort and protects the sternum — your nursing team will demonstrate this technique.
What are the risks of heart valve repair or replacement surgery?
Heart valve surgery is a major cardiac procedure and carries inherent risks. Your surgeon at SL Raheja Hospital, Mahim will discuss these with you before you sign a consent form. Possible risks include:
- Bleeding during or after the operation
- Blood clots that may cause heart attack, stroke, valve dysfunction, or pulmonary embolism
- Infection, including wound infection or endocarditis
- Pneumonia or other breathing complications
- Pancreatitis
- Arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms), which may require a temporary or permanent pacemaker
- Problems with the repaired or replaced valve, including structural deterioration over time
- Adverse reactions to anaesthesia
- In rare cases, death
Additional risks may apply depending on your individual medical condition, age, and co-existing health problems. Discuss all concerns openly with your cardiologist and cardiac surgeon before the procedure.
Warning: Patients taking anticoagulants, aspirin, or other blood-thinning medications must inform their surgeon before surgery. Stopping or continuing these medicines requires careful medical guidance to balance clotting and bleeding risk.
Who performs heart valve surgery at SL Raheja Hospital?
SL Raheja Hospital — A Fortis Associate in Mahim, Mumbai, has a cardiology and cardiac surgery team experienced in managing complex valve disease. For information about the specific consultants and cardiac surgeons available for your care, please use the booking form on this page or write to info@rahejahospital.com.
The team works across the full spectrum of cardiology services, from diagnostic evaluation through to surgical intervention and post-operative follow-up, ensuring continuity of care throughout your treatment journey.
Book a consultation at SL Raheja Hospital
Use the booking form on this page, or reach out directly:
Email: info@rahejahospital.com
FAQs
- Valve repair preserves your natural valve — the surgeon may separate fused leaflets, fix tears, or reshape valve components to restore function. Valve replacement removes the diseased valve entirely and substitutes it with an artificial one made of carbon-coated plastic or biological tissue. Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate option based on the type and severity of your valve problem.
- The duration varies depending on the complexity of the valve problem and the surgical approach. Open-heart valve surgery typically takes several hours, including the time on cardiopulmonary bypass. Minimally invasive procedures may differ. Your cardiac surgeon at SL Raheja Hospital, Mahim, will give you a more precise estimate after reviewing your diagnostic results.
- Open-heart valve repair or replacement generally requires a hospital stay of several days or longer, beginning with time in the intensive care unit followed by a period in the post-surgical ward. Minimally invasive approaches may allow a shorter stay. Your discharge will be planned once your cardiac function is stable and you are able to manage safely at home.
- Artificial valves fall into two main categories: mechanical valves, made from carbon-coated plastic, and biological (tissue) valves, made from animal valves or donated human valves. Mechanical valves are durable but usually require long-term blood-thinning medication. Tissue valves may not require lifelong anticoagulation but can wear over time. Your surgeon will discuss the pros and cons of each option with you.
- Mild valve disease is often managed with medication to control symptoms and monitor progression. However, when valve dysfunction becomes severe or causes significant symptoms — such as breathlessness, chest pain, or heart failure — surgical repair or replacement is usually necessary. Your cardiologist at SL Raheja Hospital in Mumbai will assess whether surgery is indicated based on your clinical evaluation.
- You can request a consultation by using the booking form on this page or by emailing info@rahejahospital.com. SL Raheja Hospital — A Fortis Associate is located at Raheja Rugnalaya Marg, Mahim West, Mumbai 400016. The cardiology team will review your referral and arrange an appointment with an appropriate specialist.
- Valve repair preserves your natural valve — the surgeon may separate fused leaflets, fix tears, or reshape valve components to restore function. Valve replacement removes the diseased valve entirely and substitutes it with an artificial one made of carbon-coated plastic or biological tissue. Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate option based on the type and severity of your valve problem.
- The duration varies depending on the complexity of the valve problem and the surgical approach. Open-heart valve surgery typically takes several hours, including the time on cardiopulmonary bypass. Minimally invasive procedures may differ. Your cardiac surgeon at SL Raheja Hospital, Mahim, will give you a more precise estimate after reviewing your diagnostic results.
- Open-heart valve repair or replacement generally requires a hospital stay of several days or longer, beginning with time in the intensive care unit followed by a period in the post-surgical ward. Minimally invasive approaches may allow a shorter stay. Your discharge will be planned once your cardiac function is stable and you are able to manage safely at home.
- Artificial valves fall into two main categories: mechanical valves, made from carbon-coated plastic, and biological (tissue) valves, made from animal valves or donated human valves. Mechanical valves are durable but usually require long-term blood-thinning medication. Tissue valves may not require lifelong anticoagulation but can wear over time. Your surgeon will discuss the pros and cons of each option with you.
- Mild valve disease is often managed with medication to control symptoms and monitor progression. However, when valve dysfunction becomes severe or causes significant symptoms — such as breathlessness, chest pain, or heart failure — surgical repair or replacement is usually necessary. Your cardiologist at SL Raheja Hospital in Mumbai will assess whether surgery is indicated based on your clinical evaluation.
- You can request a consultation by using the booking form on this page or by emailing info@rahejahospital.com. SL Raheja Hospital — A Fortis Associate is located at Raheja Rugnalaya Marg, Mahim West, Mumbai 400016. The cardiology team will review your referral and arrange an appointment with an appropriate specialist.
- Valve repair preserves your natural valve — the surgeon may separate fused leaflets, fix tears, or reshape valve components to restore function. Valve replacement removes the diseased valve entirely and substitutes it with an artificial one made of carbon-coated plastic or biological tissue. Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate option based on the type and severity of your valve problem.
- The duration varies depending on the complexity of the valve problem and the surgical approach. Open-heart valve surgery typically takes several hours, including the time on cardiopulmonary bypass. Minimally invasive procedures may differ. Your cardiac surgeon at SL Raheja Hospital, Mahim, will give you a more precise estimate after reviewing your diagnostic results.
- Open-heart valve repair or replacement generally requires a hospital stay of several days or longer, beginning with time in the intensive care unit followed by a period in the post-surgical ward. Minimally invasive approaches may allow a shorter stay. Your discharge will be planned once your cardiac function is stable and you are able to manage safely at home.
- Artificial valves fall into two main categories: mechanical valves, made from carbon-coated plastic, and biological (tissue) valves, made from animal valves or donated human valves. Mechanical valves are durable but usually require long-term blood-thinning medication. Tissue valves may not require lifelong anticoagulation but can wear over time. Your surgeon will discuss the pros and cons of each option with you.
- Mild valve disease is often managed with medication to control symptoms and monitor progression. However, when valve dysfunction becomes severe or causes significant symptoms — such as breathlessness, chest pain, or heart failure — surgical repair or replacement is usually necessary. Your cardiologist at SL Raheja Hospital in Mumbai will assess whether surgery is indicated based on your clinical evaluation.
- You can request a consultation by using the booking form on this page or by emailing info@rahejahospital.com. SL Raheja Hospital — A Fortis Associate is located at Raheja Rugnalaya Marg, Mahim West, Mumbai 400016. The cardiology team will review your referral and arrange an appointment with an appropriate specialist.