Aortic valve replacement or repair

An aortic valve repair or replacement is performed as open-heart surgery. The faulty or damaged valve is repaired or removed and replaced with a new valve. 

Who is suitable for an aortic valve replacement?

Your cardiologist or cardiac surgeon may recommend an aortic valve repair or replacement if your age and overall health make you eligible for surgery. 

It is a major procedure so your consultant will talk you through your options. 

What does an aortic valve replacement involve?

The procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic, so you won’t feel anything. There are multiple options to access the aortic valve, from minimally invasive to a full sternotomy. If required, a sternal bone incision will be made in your chest to access your heart. The heart is temporarily stopped for part of the operation and you will be connected to a heart-lung (bypass) machine which takes over the functions of your heart and lungs. 

Your surgeon will repair or remove the diseased valve and replace it with the most suitable size valve for your body size and anatomy. Your heart will be restarted, and you’ll be removed from the bypass machine and your chest will be closed. 

Why choose Cromwell Hospital?

What is the recovery period?

Following surgery, you’ll be taken to an intensive care unit, usually for 1 to 2 days so your heart, lungs, and bodily functions can be carefully monitored. You’ll then be moved to a surgical ward where you’ll stay for a further 4 to 5 days depending on your condition. 

It may take up to 2 to 3 months before you are fully recovered, therefore you should gradually return to your normal activities. After 4 to 6 weeks, you should be able to drive and fly. You will need approximately 6 to 12 weeks off work, depending on your job. 

Your cardiac surgeon will advise what pain killers or medication you require, and any activities you should avoid. They can also refer you for physiotherapy to help aid your rehabilitation. 

Clear self-pay options

As well as working with all major insurance companies, we also welcome patients who wish to pay for themselves. 

Below is an outline of our self-pay fixed price package for this procedure.

Fixed price package

Treatment from £81,065
All-inclusive pricing with no hidden costs:
  • Pre-admission tests
  • Private ensuite room
  • Theatre procedure including prothesis
  • Professional fees (surgical and anaesthetics)
  • Meals, nursing care and discharge medication
  • No extra cost for additional unplanned stay
  • Return to theatres if complications arise

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Please note - regrettably we are unable to answer specific medical questions or offer medical advice via email or telephone.