Q: Which doctor should I consult for bicuspid aortic valve?
A: A cardiologist or cardiac surgeon should be consulted for bicuspid aortic valve disease.
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Q: Can a bicuspid aortic valve be repaired?
A: The bicuspid aortic valve can be repaired only if the damage / calcification is minimal.
Q: How does one select the type of valve for replacement procedure?
A: The choice of valve will depend on patients’ health status, age, lifestyle and other factors. For example, if the patient is not very much active with respect to sports, a mechanical valve may be a good option.
Q: How long does it take to replace an aortic valve?
A: The surgical procedure to replace an aortic valve can last anywhere around 2 to 4 hours.
Q: Will surgical procedure for valve replacement involve opening of chest?
A: Valve replacement procedure may require sternotomy (opening of chest bone) or may require only a series of small incisions.
Q: How long does it take to recover from open heart valve surgery?
A: The normal recovery time after heart valve surgery is usually four to eight weeks.
