Läppäleikkaukset

Läppäleikkaukset, also known as valvuloplasty or valve surgery, are surgical procedures performed to repair or replace faulty heart valves. The heart has four valves: the aortic, mitral, pulmonary, and tricuspid valves, which ensure blood flows in the correct direction through the heart chambers. When these valves become damaged or diseased, they can lead to a variety of cardiovascular problems.

There are two main types of läppäleikkaukset: repair and replacement. In a repair procedure, the surgeon attempts to fix the existing valve, often by strengthening leaflets, repairing supporting structures, or resizing the valve opening. Valve repair is generally preferred when possible, as it preserves the patient's own valve tissue, which can lead to better long-term outcomes and a lower risk of complications.

If repair is not feasible, the damaged valve is replaced with an artificial one. These artificial valves can be mechanical, made from durable materials like titanium and carbon, or biological, derived from animal tissue (porcine or bovine) or human donor valves. The choice between mechanical and biological valves depends on various factors, including the patient's age, lifestyle, and other medical conditions.

Läppäleikkaukset are typically performed using open-heart surgery, where the chest is opened to access the heart. However, minimally invasive techniques, involving smaller incisions and specialized instruments, are increasingly being used for certain types of valve procedures. Recovery time and potential risks vary depending on the type of surgery and the patient's overall health.