Lung Problems After Aortic Valve Replacement

A person may experience lung problems after aortic valve replacement surgery. Possible lung problems that may occur after aortic valve replacement include pneumonia, bleeding, and lung failure. People with existing lung disease are at an increased risk of developing lung problems after aortic valve replacement.

Complications of Aortic Valve Replacement

Lung Problems After Aortic Valve Replacement: An Overview

Lung problems after aortic valve replacement are a possible complication of this procedure. Some of the lungs complications following aortic valve replacement can include:

Pneumonia
Fluid buildup
Air outside the lung
Bleeding
Lung failure.

People with existing lung disease are at increased risk of developing lung problems, including lung failure, following an aortic valve replacement.

Treatment for Lung Problems After Aortic Valve Replacement

In most cases of lung failure, it is a temporary condition that responds well to changes on the breathing machine. However, lung failure may require extended use of the breathing tube and machine. In some cases, a tracheostomy, which is a tube placed into your windpipe through your neck, may need to be placed for prolonged breathing assistance. Usually, the tube will not be placed unless a patient has been on the breathing machine for several weeks.