Catheter-based heart valve replacement – A more effective alternative to surgery?

A cardiovascular diseases are a significant health issue worldwide, particularly for the elderly. The aorta, which originates from the left ventricle of the heart, plays a crucial role in circulation, and the valve of this main artery is especially important for the proper functioning of the heart. As people age, heart valves, including the aortic valve, are prone to various changes, such as calcification and narrowing, which impose a significant burden on the heart.

Due to the narrowing, the left ventricle faces increased resistance, which can lead to heart complaints and even heart failure. Traditional surgical procedures, which involve opening the chest, can be risky, especially for older patients. However, the emergence of new, minimally invasive techniques has brought significant advancements in the treatment of heart valves, allowing patients to experience faster and safer recovery.

Modern procedures, such as catheter-based valve replacement, offer new options for those suffering from aortic valve stenosis. These methods not only reduce surgical risks but also improve the quality of life for patients.

Aortic Valve Stenosis and Its Consequences

Aortic valve stenosis is one of the most common heart diseases, particularly among the elderly. In this condition, the valve does not open properly, making it difficult for blood to flow from the heart. As a result of this process, the workload on the left ventricle increases, which can lead to various cardiovascular problems. Due to the increased strain on the heart muscle, patients may become fatigued, experience shortness of breath, and significantly reduce their physical activity.

Statistical data indicate that among the older population, the prevalence of stenosis can appear in four to five cases per hundred people. This trend is becoming increasingly common alongside the aging of society and poses serious medical challenges for cardiology. Aortic valve stenosis is a leading cause of heart failure, making the urgency and effectiveness of its treatment particularly important.

Surgical interventions, such as valve removal and replacement, can often result in dramatic improvements. However, traditional surgeries can pose risks for older patients, as opening the chest and manipulating the heart comes with significant operational burdens. Patients and their families often fear surgery, complicating the provision of appropriate care.

The Technique of Catheter-Based Valve Replacement

Catheter-based valve replacement has revolutionized the treatment of heart valves, particularly for older patients. The essence of this method is that the procedure is performed through the femoral artery using a thin catheter. This minimally invasive technique allows surgeons to place a new, artificial valve in the location of the narrowed aortic valve without having to open the chest.

This approach significantly reduces postoperative recovery time and the risk of complications. During the catheter procedure, patients generally experience less pain and can return to their daily activities more quickly. The performance of the new valves is comparable to those placed using traditional surgical methods, thus significantly improving the patients’ quality of life.

Research indicates that following catheter-based intervention, patients showed an average improvement of 14% in heart function, while the group treated with traditional surgery only showed a 7% improvement. Additionally, one year after the procedure, 58% of patients treated with the catheter procedure demonstrated normal heart function, whereas only 20% of those who underwent traditional surgery experienced such a level of improvement.

The method of catheter-based valve replacement not only reduces surgical risks but also significantly improves patients’ quality of life, representing an important step in the development of modern treatment options for heart diseases.