Before we begin the double valve replacement surgery, here is some helpful background on valves. If you know it all already, or just don't care, please feel free to to skip ahead to the double valve replacement operation performed by Dr. Grant Parr. When open, valves only permit blood to flow in one direction. When closed, they form a strong seal both between the different chambers of the heart and between the chambers and the blood vessels.
Valve damage has many possible causes.
Stenotic valves are often a natural result of aging. An infection can scar or rupture a valve. A heart attack can create a leaking valve. And congenital defects can cause any of the above. Depending on the extent and location of the damage, valves can either be repaired or replaced.