Prognosis
Valvular replacement is the most common and effective treatment. Timing is key, and if done properly, the prognosis is good. Replacement options include biological (from cow or pig) or mechanical. If mechanical, they last much longer before needing to be replaced again, but they must take blood thinners for the rest of the pateint's life in order to prevent clot buildup on the mechanical valve. If replacing from a biological source, they may last somewhat less time befor needing replacement, but there is no need to take blood thinners.
Many studies have found that elderly aortic stenosis patients have no age limit for surgical correction, so long as there are no comorbid factors. Patients over the age of 65 that recieved correctional surgery were shown to survive as long as younger patients who recieved the same surgery. This is good news to patients who have late onset of aortic stenosis, or who were asymmtomatic for some time. As soon as symptoms of chest pain, unconsciousness due to sudden drops in blood pressure, and labored breathing occur, aortic valve surgery should be preformed as soon as possible in order to prevent sudden death.
Aortic Stenosis
Mitral Prolapse
Most patients are unaware they have the disease, and in these cases is usually harmless. However, in rarely severe cases, surgery may be applied. For mitral valve prolapse, valvular repair is an ideal option in more severe cases. An echocardiogram adequately determines what action may be needed if heart murmurs are detected due to minor regurgitation from mitral prolapse.
Regurgitation
In most cases regurgitating valves do not cause many problems. Typically they simply cause other areas of the heart to compensate by working harder. As with any disease or condition, it is important to keep an eye on any changes your body may experience. If the regurgitation gets severe, it may also require surgical repair. According to the American Heart Association, most people who have valve surgeries recover and live normal, healthy lives.
Leaky Valve?
Tight Valve?
Valvue Regurgitation:
Usually not harmful to the patient. Rare cases may require surgical repair, which typically lead to a normal, healthy life.
Mitral Prolapse
Generally this is not harmful, and usually goes unnoticed. More severe forms with more regurgitation are effectively fixed with valve repair surgery.
Aortic Stenosis: Treatments include mild mintoring, valve repair, and valve replacement. If done in time, all have good outlooks.