How you prepare

Your doctor may order several tests to get more information about your heart condition, including an echocardiogram.

Before the procedure to have your mitral valve repaired or replaced, your doctor and treatment team will explain to you what to expect and discuss any concerns you may have.

As you prepare for mitral valve repair or replacement, it can be helpful to talk to your loved ones about your hospital stay and what help you may need when you return home. Your doctor and treatment team will give you specific instructions to follow during your recovery at home.

Food and medications

Talk to your doctor about:

• When you can take your regular medications and whether you can take them before your surgery
• When you should stop eating or drinking the night before the surgery

Clothing and personal items

Your treatment team may recommend that you bring several items to the hospital, including:

• A list of your medications
• Eyeglasses, hearing aids or dentures
• Personal care items, such as a brush, a comb, a toothbrush and shaving equipment
• Loosefitting, comfortable clothing
• A copy of your advance directive
• Items that may help you relax, such as portable music players or books

During surgery, avoid wearing:

• Jewelry
• Eyeglasses
• Contact lenses
• Dentures
• Nail polish

Precautions regarding medications and allergies

Talk to your doctor about:

• Any medications you have brought to the hospital and when you should take medications on the day of the procedure
• Allergies or reactions you have had to medications