Mitral valve repair
The human heart is a complex organ that consists of four chambers. The right side of the heart redirects blood to the lungs. Then it is saturated with oxygen and returns to the left half of the heart. In order to provide a continuous flow of blood, valves are used. However, if a person has birth defects, this can lead to malfunctioning valves. The mitral valve, which is located between the left atrium and ventricle, most often fails.
How does mitral valve repair
Before the operation, the doctor conducts a comprehensive examination of the body to identify a problem area in the heart. Then, on the basis of the data obtained, the surgeon makes a decision on surgery. Previously, mitral valve repair was performed on an open heart. However, with the development of modern technologies, the Tel Aviv Medical Clinic uses a minimally invasive method – catheterization.
Doctors use a minimally invasive catheter technique using a special MitraClip clamp. The operation is performed under general anaesthesia. A clamp attached to the end of the catheter is inserted through the inguinal vein to the mitral valve. Thanks to the clipping of the front and back cusps of the mitral valve, constant coaptation (connection) occur, which allows blood to pass on the sides of the clamp, but at the same time prevents its reverse current and, therefore, compensates for the insufficiency.
During the operation, the correct position of the clamp is monitored using an ECG and, if necessary, a correction is performed. The procedure does not require an opening of the chest and the use of a mechanical ventilation device. Patients recover almost immediately after surgery and may get out of bed the very next day.
The recovery period after the operation
After the end of the surgery, a person is in hospital for a week under the close supervision of qualified doctors. Then the specialist develops a rehabilitation program for the patient, which can be completed in a specialized centre. It is worth noting that the clinic set tariffs at the state level. So you get a wide range of services at an acceptable cost.
Our doctors try to create the most comfortable conditions for staying in the hospital throughout the course of therapy and recovery. If necessary, our staff will help contact charitable foundations to raise funds for treatment.