Inside the heart Valves allow blood to be flown in a particular direction, there are 4 valves inside the heart: 2 on the left side of heart; Mitral valve and Aortic valve, and 2 on the right side of the heart;Tricuspid valve and Pulmonary Valve (Fig5).

There are numerous disease that can damage the heart valves, which can lead to narrowing (stenosis) or leaking (regurgitation) of these valves, most commonly the Mitral or the Aortic valves are involved.

With the help of MICS technique these valves can be easily repaired or replaced.

With conventional valve replacement surgery, there are basically two valve categories that can be used to replace the damaged valve; mechanical valve

And tissue or bio-prosthetic valve, both have there pros and cons, Multiple factors are there which decide what valve is suitable for an individual patient. The final decision is taken after consultation with patient and the family.

No… the risk factors for 

No… the risk factors for a valve replacement surgery is same and no different for both these methodologies and rely upon different factors like age, span of problem, comorbid factors and so on as a matter of fact the recovery is quick after MICS valve replacement surgery.

Yes, after MICS valve replacement you can absolutely have active lifestyle

That includes regular activities like cycling, going to Gym, weight training or following your favorite sports because your sternum is intact.

It depends on the type of artificial valve which is implanted, if a mechanical valve is implanted then the anticoagulant should be taken for remaining life, however if a tissue/bioprosthesis valve is implanted then the anticoagulant is generally stopped after 3 months.