Aortic valve replacement surgery
In open-heart surgery, the surgeon makes an incision in the middle of the chest
Aortic valve replacement surgery may be done as an open-heart surgery or as a less invasive surgery. In open-heart surgery, the surgeon makes an incision in the middle of the chest and cuts through the breastbone (sternum). In less invasive surgery, the surgeon makes smaller incisions and does not open the chest.
In less invasive surgery, the surgeon may make an incision between the ribs
In a less invasive surgery, the surgeon may make an incision between the ribs. The surgeon uses this incision to work on the heart. The surgeon does not cut the sternum.
The chest is opened to expose the heart
In an open-heart surgery, the surgeon opens the chest with a retractor to expose the heart. The surgeon opens the lining that protects the heart (pericardium).
The damaged aortic valve is removed
Next, the surgeon removes the damaged aortic valve.
The replacement valve is sewn in place
Finally, the surgeon inserts the replacement valve into the aorta. The replacement valve may be either mechanical or made of animal tissue. The surgeon sews the valve to the annulus, which is a ring of tissue that connects to the leaflets of the aortic valve.
Current as of: September 25, 2025
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
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