Mitral valve repair surgery can be successfully performed in older patients who require concomitant coronary artery bypass surgery.
As in many patients with severe mitral valve prolapse and regurgitation, this 77-.year old patient had also developed atrial fibrillation. Therefore, we combined the mitral valve repair operation with both a coronary bypass surgery and a radio-frequency maze procedure, to correct his rhythm back to normal.
With permission from the patient to post, the patient is hemodynamically stable postop, with a well-repaired mitral valve, normal biventricular function, and his normal sinus rhythm has been restored.
In addition, as part of the maze procedure, an AtriCure clip was placed at the base of the left atrial appendage. This will allow the patient to enjoy a low risk of stroke in the future, even if the a-fib returns. In addition, the patient will no longer require blood thinners for atrial fibrillation in the future.
For patients, it’s important to know that higher volume surgeons are more likely to repair a mitral valve than to replace it, regardless of the patient’s age, or need for other procedures. This is why it’s important for patients to seek second opinions and to ask questions about their surgeon’s experience and outcomes.
Recent Posts
Why the Heart Team Approach Matters Most
For years, the debate over TAVR versus open heart surgery has shaped cardiovascular medicine. Dr. Raymond Singer shares why the best outcomes come from a collaborative heart team approach focused on the individual patient.
Patient Experience Matters as Much as the Operation
When people think about cardiac surgery, they often focus on the operation itself. But according to Dr. Raymond Singer, the future of heart surgery extends far beyond the operating room. From access to care and patient education to recovery and emotional support, the patient experience is becoming one of the most important measures of healthcare excellence.
I Used to Be an Athlete
After years of long hours, stress, and the demands of a surgical career, Dr. Raymond Singer realized he had drifted far from the healthy athlete he once was. Through consistent lifestyle changes, improved nutrition, exercise, emotional wellness, and the support of modern GLP-1 medications, he lost nearly 60 pounds and discovered that healthy aging begins one decision at a time.
What It Feels Like to Hold a Human Heart
After nearly 9,000 heart operations, Dr. Raymond Singer shares what it feels like to hold a human heart in his hand and explains how studying the remarkable complexity of the heart has strengthened his faith and appreciation for life.
How a Calcium Score Led to Bypass Surgery
When Michael learned his coronary calcium score was 775, he knew something wasn’t right. Although initial stress tests appeared normal, advanced cardiac imaging eventually uncovered severe coronary artery disease with critical blockages. Just 11 days after cardiac catheterization, he underwent successful double bypass surgery and was back home within days, experiencing minimal pain and a remarkable recovery.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Many people think obstructive sleep apnea is simply a nuisance because of loud snoring, but it can have serious consequences for heart health. Repeated interruptions in breathing place tremendous stress on the cardiovascular system and may increase the risk of high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, heart failure, stroke, and heart attack. Learn the warning signs, risks, and treatment options that can improve both sleep quality and long-term health.
Featured
Pages
- Learn about heart valves. Heart Valves
- Read testimonials. Testimonials
- Did you know I have a consulting firm? Singer Heart/Lung Consulting
- Check out my TedTalk! Defining Success
Links
- Links page with more information about your heart. Links
- Dr. Adam Pick's Site: heart-valve-surgery.com
