Valve Surgery: To Replace or Repair?

Over time, a valve problem can create symptoms or progress and become more severe. Unfortunately, there is no medicine to make heart valves work better.

So when valves become either too tight or too leaky and start to cause problems with heart function or symptoms, the valve will have to be fixed. Whether the valve can be repaired or must be replaced is a decision to discuss with your surgeon.

Mitral valves can more often be repaired so that they work better. A valve repair can sometimes be done with a less invasive surgery. Aortic valves more often need to be replaced with artificial valves or tissue valves.