2 Treatment Approaches for Valvular Heart Disease

     Following our previous discussion on valvular heart disease and precise diagnostic technologies, this article focuses on treatment approaches and maintaining heart health for patients diagnosed with valve issues or other related cardiac conditions.

Treating Valvular Heart Disease

     Treatment strategies for valvular heart disease at our Heart Center depend primarily on the severity, symptoms, and patient age. For mild to moderate damage, doctors may recommend lifestyle adjustments and continuous monitoring.

Types of Treatment

This approach is also suitable for elderly patients or those with a history of chest surgery, who might not be ideal candidates for open surgery. Conversely, for severe cases, physicians may consider the following treatments:

1.  Surgical Valve Repair

     If the heart valve is damaged, torn, or leaking, surgical repair may be considered. This procedure uses the patient's heart tissue for repair, preventing immune rejection.

2.  Transcatheter Valve Repair (MitraClip)

     This minimally invasive procedure aims to repair heart valves, specifically severe mitral regurgitation, for patients unsuitable for open-heart surgery due to high surgical risk (e.g., elderly patients or those with multiple comorbidities). Suitability is determined by cardiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons.

Note: 

This procedure is performed via a catheter inserted through the femoral artery in the groin or intercostal space, directly reaching the heart without requiring an open chest incision. This method yields excellent results, involves less time, and significantly reduces surgical risks.

Exercise for a Healthy Heart

     Appropriate exercise is beneficial for heart patients and vital for overall cardiac rehabilitation. Regular physical activity enhances heart muscle and blood vessel efficiency, improving blood circulation to all body parts. The methods recommended by our Heart Center enable patients to perform daily activities better and foster stronger mental well-being.

Principles of Exercise for Heart Strengthening

For patient safety, heart patients should exercise according to their doctor's recommendations from the Heart Center, under close medical supervision, and adhere to the following guidelines:

• Pre-Exercise Consultation: Always consult a doctor and undergo a cardiac fitness evaluation to determine a suitable exercise regimen. For certain pre-existing conditions, continuous monitoring of symptoms and heart graphs by a specialist may be necessary for safety.
• Warm-up: Always warm up for at least 10 minutes before exercising.
• Location: Choose an exercise environment that is open, well-ventilated, and has a comfortable temperature (neither too hot nor too cold).
• Attire: Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows for good ventilation and heat dissipation.
• Intensity: Avoid overexertion. Exercise intensity should primarily be based on the doctor's assessment.
• Timing: Do not exercise immediately after meals.
• Avoid Exercise When Unwell: Do not exercise if you have a fever, diarrhea, vomiting, or feel overly fatigued.
• Consult Doctor for Symptoms: If experiencing symptoms related to exercise, especially with pre-existing conditions, consult a doctor.

Ramkhamhaeng Heart Center's Diagnostic and Treatment Services:

Our Heart Center offers comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services for cardiac conditions, including:

• Cardiac diagnosis by specialized cardiologists
• Electrocardiogram (EKG)
• Exercise Stress Test (EST) for cardiac fitness assessment
• Echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart)
• Cardiac MRI for heart abnormalities
• 128-Slice CT Scan for heart abnormalities
• 24-48 hour portable Holter monitor for continuous EKG recording
• Event Loop Recorder Monitor for remote EKG and symptom monitoring
• 24-hour Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM)
• Tilt Table Test for syncope (fainting) causes
• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) to detect arterial blockages
• Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test (CPET/Vo2MAX) for heart and lung fitness
• Cardiac Catheterization with contrast injection
• Cardiothoracic Surgery
• Cardiac Rehabilitation

Ramkhamhaeng Hospital Heart Center

     Ramkhamhaeng Hospital's Heart Center is dedicated to providing compassionate cardiac care, prioritizing the well-being of every patient. The hospital operates 24/7 to accommodate all emergencies under the supervision of a specialized medical team.