Dr. Arijit Datta, a Gold Medal awardee in DNB (Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery), brings over 25 years of surgical excellence in heart valve treatment. At Manipal Hospitals, Mukundapur, he performs mitral valve replacement surgeries with exceptional precision and care.

What Is Mitral Valve Replacement?

Mitral valve replacement is a surgical procedure used to treat mitral valve regurgitation (leakage) or stenosis (narrowing). During the surgery, the damaged valve between the heart’s left atrium and left ventricle is replaced with either a mechanical valve or a biological (tissue) valve.
This restores normal blood flow and helps the heart pump efficiently again.

When Is the Procedure Recommended?

Mitral valve replacement is advised when the valve is too damaged to repair — often due to rheumatic heart disease, degenerative changes, or calcification.
According to ACC/AHA guidelines, surgery is typically recommended when:

• Symptoms such as shortness of breath or fatigue appear

• The valve cannot be repaired effectively

• Heart function begins to decline due to the faulty valve

How the Procedure Is Done

The surgery can be performed through:

• Traditional open-heart surgery (sternotomy), or

• Minimally invasive techniques using small incisions and special instruments.

During the operation, the patient is placed on a heart-lung bypass machine. The surgeon removes the diseased valve and implants the new one.
In some cases, a maze procedure may be added to treat atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat).

Benefits of Mitral Valve Replacement

• Improves breathing and stamina

• Reduces fatigue and swelling

• Prevents stroke and heart failure

• Enhances quality of life and longevity

For older patients or those at higher surgical risk, transcatheter mitral valve procedures (TMVR) may be an option, offering faster recovery and less discomfort.

Risks and Aftercare

Like any major surgery, mitral valve replacement has potential risks such as infection, bleeding, or blood clots.
Patients with mechanical valves will need lifelong blood-thinning medication (warfarin) and regular INR monitoring.

After surgery:

• A hospital stay of 5–7 days is common

• Cardiac rehabilitation and follow-up appointments are essential

• Lifestyle changes, healthy diet, and regular exercise help maintain results