apollo
  • male
  • 75 Years
  • 14/08/2025

Is aortic valve replacement with a tissue valve safe for someone over 70 my dad's doctor suggested it but I'm worried about risks at his age

Doctor 1

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

The risk of experiencing complications is generally higher for older people and those in generally poor health. Possible problems include: Infection – there's a risk of wound infections, lung infections, bladder infections and heart valve infections (endocarditis). You may be given antibiotics to reduce this risk.

Dr. Kamran Suggests...

Consult a Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeon

Answered 14/08/2025

0

0

Sick? Talk to a doctor now

More Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgery Health Queries

View all

I'm 18 and just found out I have mitral valve prolapse and Marfan syndrome my doctor recommended open heart surgery to fix the valve. I'm really nervous and wanted to ask what the chances of something going wrong are during the surgery

Open-heart surgery for mitral valve prolapse in Marfan syndrome carries some risk but is generally safe when done at a cardiac center with experience.

read more
Doctor 1Doctor 2

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Could you explain if a balloon is used during an aortic valve replacement surgery? I'm just trying to understand the process better and what to expect during the operation.

In Aortic valve replacement surgery, a balloon catheter may be used during the procedure to help open up a narrowed or blocked valve. This technique, known as balloon valvuloplasty, involves inserting a catheter with a balloon at the tip into the narrowed valve and inflating the balloon to widen the valve opening. However, the decision to use a balloon catheter during an aortic valve replacement surgery depends on the specific circumstances of the patient's condition and the surgeon's preference. If the aortic valve is severely narrowed or blocked (a condition known as aortic stenosis), the surgeon may choose to perform a balloon valvuloplasty before proceeding with the valve replacement to improve the function of the valve and reduce the risk of complications during the surgery. Alternatively, in some cases, the balloon valvuloplasty may be performed after the valve replacement to further optimize valve function. Ultimately, the decision to use a balloon catheter during an aortic valve replacement surgery is based on the individual patient's condition and the surgeon's judgment. It is important to discuss the specifics of your case with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

read more
Doctor 1Doctor 2

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

My friend's report says severe calcific aortic valve but no AR, mild MR, no PAH, and normal heart function. No clots or effusion either. Should they consider surgery or can they manage without it for now?

Your friend's situation is complex and requires a cardiologist's expert opinion. While having severe calcific aortic valve stenosis without aortic regurgitation (AR) and mild mitral regurgitation (MR) with normal heart function is a concerning scenario, it doesn't automatically necessitate immediate surgery. Mayo Clinic recommends that surgery for aortic stenosis, including replacement, is a key consideration, even if the patient is asymptomatic. However, the presence of mild MR and the lack of AR, PAH, clots, or effusion suggest a more complex situation that needs careful evaluation

read more
Doctor 1Doctor 2

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.