What to Expect Without the Aortic Valve Replacement: An Overview

Even if your doctor recommends the procedure, it is always your choice whether or not to have aortic valve replacement surgery. But it is important to understand the possible consequences of this decision.

 

Without aortic valve replacement surgery, you will remain at risk for the progression of a serious and life-threatening illness. Though no one can truly predict the outcome of your specific situation, it is possible that you will continue to experience poor health and possibly the loss of your life. Without a corrective valve procedure, half of the patients who develop symptoms of fainting will most likely lose their lives within 3 years. And half of the patients that develop a heart condition known as congestive heart failure will most likely lose their lives within 2 years.

 

Furthermore, if your symptoms persist and worsen, the risk of complications associated with having this surgery at a later time rises dramatically. If this happens, you may no longer be a candidate for surgery.

 

These statistics can be surprising, but remember, everything depends on your particular situation. The final decision to have or not have an aortic valve replacement rests with you, but your concerns related to this decision should be discussed with your doctor at length. Together, you and your doctor can come up with a treatment that is comfortable for you.