Why it's done

There are two basic types of heart valve defects: a narrowing of a valve (stenosis) and a leak in a valve that allows blood to back up (regurgitation). You might need heart valve surgery if you have one of these defects and it's affecting your heart's ability to pump blood.

Your doctor will evaluate you to determine the most appropriate treatment for your condition. If you don't have signs or symptoms, or your condition is mild, your doctor might suggest monitoring over time. In that case, healthy lifestyle changes and medications might help manage symptoms.

Eventually, your valve might need to be repaired or replaced. In some cases, doctors recommend heart valve repair or replacement even if you're not having symptoms. If you need heart surgery for another condition, doctors might repair or replace the affected heart valve at the same time.

Your doctor will discuss with you whether heart valve repair or replacement is more appropriate for your condition. Doctors often recommend heart valve repair when possible, as it preserves your heart valve and might preserve heart function. But sometimes valve replacement is necessary and the best option.

Doctors might also evaluate if you're a candidate for minimally invasive heart surgery. Your doctor will discuss the benefits and risks of each procedure.

If you need heart valve surgery, if possible, choose a medical center that has performed many heart valve surgeries.