Bentall Procedure - What Your Surgeon Won't Tell You!

If you or your loved one has recently been recommended the Bentall procedure, you’ve probably already dived head-first into it. Chances are, what you found did not satisfy the questions of long-term benefits you’ll see. And if you’ll see it.

Your surgeon may not tell you the truth about recovery and long-term care in its entirety. Also, you can’t hold them fully accountable with the amount of patients they tend to; so, think of us as their helpers!

Answering every question about the Bentall procedure that you may not find at the clinic! The following section is for you to dive into.

Beyond the Surgery - Uniqueness of the Bentall Procedure

Bentall is a complex cardiac surgery that replaces the aortic root, valve and part of the aorta - so it is more than just a heart surgery. Undergoing this surgery is sometimes the only solution for certain conditions such as connective tissue disorders or aneurysms.

The procedure is also known as aortic root replacement Bentall procedure and here are a few things to know:

• Bio Bentall procedure vs. mechanical valves - If you are or have a young individual requiring the surgery, the latter lasts longer. But this requires you take blood thinners for life. Biological valves avoid medications but it needs replacement within 10-20 years.

• Bentall procedure steps usually involves reattaching coronary arteries through a delicate procedure that impacts long-term heart functions. You may ask your surgeon “how many of these have you performed?” to get an idea about their experience.

If you have an active lifestyle, consult with your surgeon to know all the restrictions you may have to follow for some days.

Let’s move on to the truth of recovery.

Recovery Time: The Unspoken Truth

While hospitals tell you that the Bentall procedure recovery time will be around 6-8 weeks, most patients we contacted reported:

• 3+ months before their stamina returns to full.

• Cardiac depression is common post-op and there’s emotional toll of the surgery

• The surgery can isolate you for 8+ weeks not allowing you to drive for that duration.

It will be best to plan a support system beforehand. This includes rides, meals and someone to help with daily tasks such as bathing, brushing, etc. Remember recovery is your time to focus on healing, not seeing how soon you can return to the “normal life.”

Success Rates & How Can You Improve Yours

The procedure is quite complex and some people experience more than 90% Bentall procedure success rate. But your outcomes could depend on:

• Surgeon’s experience - Choose a team that does more than 50 surgeries annually. This shows they really know what to do, and how to do it right.

• Post-op care - Infections can endanger your graft. Carry your surgeon’s contact information everywhere you go for best results.

• Pace your activities - Overexertion can put strain on the aorta which can lead to issues.

Life After Bentall - Long-Term Care

Unlike the traditional valve replacements, the Bentall surgery requires lifelong monitoring-

• Annual imaging such as MRI/CT scan to check the graft

• Strict blood pressure management using beta-blockers or other suitable medications.

• Preventing endocarditis (bacterial infection in the endocardium, heart’s protective layer) is an essential part of recovery.

• Always be prepared while travelling by carrying medical records in case of emergencies.

• You can resume exercising after complete recovery and only if your surgeon allows it. It is likely that your doctor will prevent you from contact sports, heavy weightlifting and extreme exertion. They may allow you to assume swimming, walking and light cycling.

If you’re wondering if the procedure is risky, the chances of developing major complications are between 5-10%. The mortality rate or the rate of people dying after the procedure is less than 5% which makes severe risks very rare.

Can the Bentall procedure be done through minimal invasion?

Due to the complexity of the procedure, the chances of performing minimally invasive Bentall is rare. It requires open heart surgery due to the procedure’s sensitivity.

Will I need another surgery later?

Needing another surgery or re-surgery depends on the type of procedure you opt for. If you go for mechanical valve, you will not require another surgery unless there are complications (rare.) And if you got bio Bentall procedure, you will need a replacement surgery in 10-15 or 20 years.

Can I fly after the surgery?

Yes, you can fly after 4-6 weeks of the surgery and you’ll need approval from your cardiologist.

Note from Yapita Health

If you have a diagnosis of aneurysms or severe valve disease, the Bentall surgery can be a life-saving option. The success of this surgery depends on choosing the right surgeon with experience in this procedure, proper long-term monitoring and following your doctor’s instructions on lifestyle changes.

At Yapita Health, we can connect you with the top Bentall procedure doctors who can provide the best quality treatment. Our skilled team will also take care of proper post-operative care so that you are committed to a proper recovery.