AVR – Aortic Valve Replacement
Steps Involved in IVF:
Procedure Description
Aortic Valve Replacement (AVR) is a surgical intervention aimed at replacing a malfunctioning aortic valve, one of the critical valves that control blood flow in the heart. The aortic valve ensures that oxygen-rich blood flows from the left ventricle into the aorta, the main artery responsible for delivering blood to the body. When this valve malfunctions, due to conditions such as aortic stenosis (narrowing of the valve) or aortic regurgitation (leakage of the valve), the heart struggles to maintain adequate blood flow, leading to symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest pain. AVR replaces the defective valve with an artificial or biological substitute to restore normal blood flow and improve heart function.
There are two primary types of replacement valves used in AVR: mechanical and biological (tissue) valves. Mechanical valves, typically made from durable materials like metal, are designed to last a lifetime. However, patients with mechanical valves may require lifelong blood-thinning medications to prevent blood clots. Biological valves, sourced from human or animal tissue, generally don’t necessitate long-term anticoagulation therapy but have a shorter lifespan and may require replacement after several years.
The AVR procedure can be performed using different approaches: open-heart surgery, minimally invasive surgery, and transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Open-heart surgery remains the traditional approach, involving a sternotomy (opening of the chest) to provide access to the heart. Minimally invasive AVR, on the other hand, requires smaller incisions, reducing recovery time and scarring. TAVR is a less invasive method often chosen for patients who may not be suitable candidates for open-heart surgery, as it involves placing the new valve through a catheter inserted into an artery, typically in the groin or chest.
Procedure Duration
The duration of AVR varies depending on the surgical approach. Open-heart AVR typically lasts between 3 to 5 hours. During this procedure, patients are under general anesthesia, and a heart-lung machine is employed to circulate blood and oxygen while the heart is temporarily stopped. Following the surgery, patients are often monitored in an intensive care unit (ICU) for the first 24 to 48 hours to ensure stable heart function and proper blood circulation.
For minimally invasive AVR, the procedure duration may be shorter, usually around 2 to 4 hours. Patients undergoing this method may experience a reduced hospital stay and faster recovery compared to open-heart surgery, as smaller incisions are made. However, this approach is often only recommended for patients who meet specific criteria.
The TAVR procedure is notably shorter, typically lasting 1 to 2 hours, and usually does not require general anesthesia. This option allows for a significantly faster recovery and is generally considered safer for elderly or high-risk patients. Following a TAVR procedure, patients may only need a short hospital stay of 2 to 3 days, compared to the 5 to 7 days typical of open-heart surgery patients. Full recovery from AVR can vary, with open-heart AVR requiring up to 6 to 12 weeks, while minimally invasive and TAVR patients may resume regular activities within a few weeks.
Benefits
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Improved blood flow and heart function often lead to increased energy levels, reduced symptoms, and overall enhanced quality of life.
- Extended Life Expectancy: AVR can significantly prolong life for patients with severe aortic valve diseases, as it reduces strain on the heart.
- Minimally Invasive Options: Minimally invasive and TAVR approaches are available, providing faster recovery times and fewer complications for eligible patients.
- Improved Cardiac Function: Restores proper blood circulation and reduces the risk of heart failure due to untreated valve diseases.
- Reduced Symptoms: Alleviates symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest pain, enabling patients to return to regular daily activities more comfortably.
Potential Destinations
- Germany
Germany is known for its advanced healthcare system and high standards in cardiac surgery. It offers state-of-the-art facilities and experienced cardiac surgeons, making it a preferred destination for AVR procedures, especially for patients seeking minimally invasive options.
- India
India provides high-quality cardiac care at competitive prices, attracting patients from around the world. Many hospitals in major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore offer advanced surgical procedures and are equipped with modern medical technology for successful AVR treatments.
- Turkey
Turkey has emerged as a popular destination for medical tourism, with its cardiac care facilities offering competitive pricing without compromising quality. The country is known for its well-trained surgeons and modern facilities, particularly in Istanbul and Ankara.
- Thailand
Thailand combines quality medical care with affordability, especially in the field of cardiac surgery. Thai hospitals in Bangkok and Chiang Mai are equipped with cutting-edge technology and renowned for patient-centered care, appealing to international patients seeking a comfortable experience.
- Singapore
Singapore is highly regarded for its medical infrastructure and advanced healthcare system. Its hospitals are known for meeting international standards, offering a high level of care in cardiac surgery and minimally invasive procedures, making it a strong option for AVR.
Risks & Considerations
- Blood Clots: Patients with mechanical valves are at risk of developing blood clots, which may necessitate lifelong anticoagulant therapy to prevent complications like stroke.
- Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection, particularly in open-heart surgery. Patients should adhere to post-operative care guidelines to minimize this risk.
- Valve Degeneration: Biological valves have a finite lifespan and may require replacement in 10 to 15 years, which is an important consideration for younger patients.
- Bleeding Complications: Anticoagulant therapy can increase the risk of bleeding. Regular monitoring and consultations are essential to manage this risk effectively.
- Heart Rhythm Issues: Some patients may experience arrhythmias or other heart rhythm abnormalities after surgery, which might necessitate additional treatment or medication.
How to Choose the Right Doctor and Hospital
When selecting a doctor and hospital for AVR, it’s essential to consider the doctor’s experience and the hospital’s reputation in cardiac care. Look for cardiac surgeons with extensive experience in performing AVR, particularly the type you are considering—whether open-heart, minimally invasive, or TAVR. Reviewing their success rates, certifications, and patient testimonials can provide insights into their proficiency and patient satisfaction.
In addition, hospitals equipped with advanced cardiac care units, modern surgical technology, and dedicated cardiac ICUs are more likely to provide the comprehensive care needed for a successful AVR procedure. Consulting medical tourism professionals or organizations that specialize in patient-centered care can further guide you toward making an informed decision, especially when selecting healthcare providers in foreign countries.
To receive a free quote for this procedure please click on the link: https://www.medicaltourism.com/get-a-quote
Patients are advised to seek hospitals that are accredited by Global Healthcare and only work with medical tourism facilitators who are certified by Global Healthcare Accreditation or who have undergone certification from the Certified Medical Travel Professionals (CMTP). This ensures that the highest standards in the industry are met. GHA accredits the top hospitals in the world. These are the best hospitals in the world for quality and providing the best patient experience. Click the link to check out hospitals accredited by the Global Healthcare Accreditation: https://www.globalhealthcareaccreditation.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What actually happens during hyperstimulation of the ovaries?
The patient will take injectable FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) for eight to eleven days, depending on how long the follicles take to mature. This hormone is produced naturally in a woman’s body causing one egg to develop per cycle. Taking the injectable FSH causes several follicles to develop at once, at approximately the same rate. The development is monitored with vaginal ultrasounds and following the patient’s levels of estradiol and progesterone. FSH brand names include Repronex, Follistim, Menopur, Gonal-F and Bravelle. The patient injects herself daily.
What happens during egg retrieval?
When the follicles have developed enough to be harvested, the patient attends an appointment where she is anesthetized and prepared for the procedure. Next, the doctor uses an ultrasound probe to guide a needle through the vaginal wall and into the follicle of the ovary. The thin needle draws the follicle fluid, which is then examined by an embryologist to find the eggs. The whole process takes about 20 minutes.
What happens to the eggs?
In the next step, the harvested eggs are then fertilized. If the sperm from the potential father, or in some cases, anonymous donor, has normal functionality, the eggs and sperm are placed together in a dish with a nutrient fluid, then incubated overnight to fertilize normally. If the sperm functionality is suboptimal, an embryologist uses Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection to inject a single sperm into a single egg with an extremely precise glass needle. Once fertilization is complete, the embryos are assessed and prepared to be transferred to the patient’s uterus.
How are the embryos transferred back to the uterus?
The doctor and the patient will discuss the number of embryos to be transferred. The number of successfully fertilized eggs usually determines the number of eggs to be placed in the uterus. Embryos are transferred to the uterus with transabdominal ultrasound guidance. This process does not require anesthesia, but it can cause minor cervical or uterine discomfort. Following transfer, the patient is advised to take at least one days bed rest and two or three additional days of rest, then 10 to 12 days later, two pregnancy tests are scheduled to confirm success. Once two positive tests are completed, an obstetrical ultrasound is ordered to show the sac, fetal pole, yolk sac and fetal heart rate.
Embryoscope©
Built into this technology there is a microscope with a powerful camera that allows the uninterrupted monitoring of the embryo during its first hours of life. In this way, we can keep a close eye on the embryo, from the moment when the oocyte is inseminated and begins to divide into smaller and smaller cells, until it can be transferred to the uterus.
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Punta Mita Hospital - Genesis Cell
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