Leakage of heart valve prosthesis digital illustration

Leakage of heart valve prosthesis Save


ICD-10 code: T82.03

Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes

Leakage of Heart Valve Prosthesis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Heart valve prosthesis is a device that is implanted in patients with heart valve diseases to replace the damaged valve. These devices are designed to function like natural valves, facilitating the flow of blood through the heart. However, in some cases, leakage of the heart valve prosthesis may occur, leading to serious health complications. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for leakage of heart valve prosthesis.

Causes of Leakage of Heart Valve Prosthesis
  • Problems with the implantation procedure: Leakage of the heart valve prosthesis can occur if the device is not implanted correctly. This can happen if the surgeon does not position the device properly, or if the device is not the right size for the patient.
  • Wear and tear: Over time, the heart valve prosthesis can develop wear and tear, which can cause the device to leak. This is more common in mechanical heart valves than in bioprosthetic valves.
  • Infection: In rare cases, infection can cause the heart valve prosthesis to leak. This is more common in patients who have a history of heart valve infections.
  • Symptoms of Leakage of Heart Valve Prosthesis
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Swelling in the legs or abdomen
  • Treatment Options for Leakage of Heart Valve Prosthesis

    The treatment for leakage of heart valve prosthesis depends on the severity of the leak and the patient's overall health. In some cases, medication may be enough to manage the symptoms of the leak. However, if the leak is severe, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace the heart valve prosthesis.

    1. Medication: Medications such as diuretics, beta-blockers, and ACE inhibitors can help manage the symptoms of heart valve prosthesis leakage.
    2. Repair: If the leak is small, the surgeon may be able to repair the heart valve prosthesis without replacing it. This is usually done through a minimally invasive procedure.
    3. Replace: If the leak is severe, the heart valve prosthesis may need to be replaced. This is done through open-heart surgery.

    In conclusion, leakage of heart valve prosthesis is a serious health complication that requires prompt medical attention. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. With the right treatment, most patients can recover from this condition and resume