Mitral/Aortic Valve Replacement

[Kate3767]

My 76 yr old father-in-law is scheduled to have dual valve replacement soon. He has existing COPD and a AAA (abdominal aortic aneurysm) He is on a variety of medications. My question is how much higher is mortality when there is comorbid disease present? Also, what is the likelyhood of complications? We are very concerned that if he proceeds with such an invasive surgery that his post surgical quality of life could be diminished. We are uncertain if our concerns are valid. Any information you could provide us with would be appreciated. Thank you for your time.

[kenkeith]

Usually surgical operations are not performed unless it is an urgent matter of survival when the health of the patient is an issue.  If I remember correctly, 1 to 3% under normal conditions have complications after valve replacements.  Obviously, the risk is higher with health issues.

I have severe mitral valve regurgitation for the past 5 years or more without major symptoms, and the doctor and I put off any operation as the doctor stated the expectation would be to not feel any better and there is a risk of complications effecting quality of life and not feeling very well.  

It is really an individual decision, age, general health, etc.  Your father may or may not feel any better, and the operation usually would not increase longivity unless the valve problem is causing heart failure, etc.