Studies continue to show that mitral valve surgery can be safely performed in most elderly patients with severe mitral regurgitation. Mitral valve repair techniques, combined with the Cox Maze IV procedure to correct atrial fibrillation, and placement of an occlusive clip on the left atrial appendage, can markedly improve patients’ quality of life.
Moreover, many patients can have their chronic anticoagulation stopped, decreasing the risk of complications associated blood thinners.
The best outcomes occur when operative intervention is performed early, before advanced symptoms of heart failure develop.
Recent Posts
The Power of Culture in Healthcare: Why Great Teams Deliver Better Care
In healthcare, metrics tell only part of the story. The culture behind a program shapes how people communicate, collaborate, hold one another accountable, and ultimately care for patients.
A Tiny Heart Tumor, a Stroke, and a Remarkable Recovery
After suffering a stroke with no clear source, Tayshia Hatcher was found to have a small tumor on her aortic valve. Surgeons removed the benign tumor, preserved her valve, and helped identify what was likely the source of her stroke. Six weeks after surgery, Tayshia reported no pain and no lasting effects from her stroke.
When Open Heart Surgery Is the Best Option
At 82 years old, Rachel Leister underwent triple valve open heart surgery after severe aortic and mitral valve stenosis caused significant shortness of breath. Six weeks later, she is pain-free, feeling great, and ready to get back to walking outdoors.
Your Heart Was Made to Move
What is the best exercise for your heart? There isn’t just one answer. Dr. Raymond Singer explains how aerobic exercise, strength training, flexibility, balance, and simple daily movement can all support cardiovascular health.
Can Sleep Affect Your Waistline?
We often think about diet and exercise when we talk about maintaining a healthy weight. But there may be a third piece of the puzzle: sleep. Dr. Raymond Singer explores how insufficient sleep can affect hunger, metabolism, cravings, abdominal fat, and cardiovascular health.
The Heart-Lung Machine: A Jefferson Legacy That Changed Medicine
More than 70 years ago, Jefferson surgeon and researcher John H. Gibbon Jr. helped make what once seemed impossible a reality: temporarily replacing the functions of the heart and lungs with a machine so surgeons could operate on a stopped heart.
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
