Open-heart surgery (OHS) for aortic and mitral valve replacement can be a significant procedure, especially at 71 years old. Here are some key points about recovery based on your knowledge base:

- Initial Recovery: After heart valve surgery, you will spend one or two days in the intensive care unit (ICU) for close Show Full Answer

Open-heart surgery (OHS) for aortic and mitral valve replacement can be a significant procedure, especially at 71 years old. Here are some key points about recovery based on your knowledge base:

- Initial Recovery: After heart valve surgery, you will spend one or two days in the intensive care unit (ICU) for close monitoring. You will then continue recovery in another part of the hospital for an additional three to five days before returning home.

- Full Recovery: It typically takes at least three months to fully recover from open-heart surgery. During this time, you will likely participate in a cardiac rehabilitation program to help regain strength and learn heart-healthy habits.

- Cardiac Rehabilitation: This program involves an outpatient exercise regimen and education on lifestyle changes to support heart health.

- Minimally Invasive Alternatives: If open-heart surgery is a concern, discuss with your doctor the possibility of less invasive options like Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), which has a shorter recovery time and may be suitable depending on your overall health and specific conditions.

Always consult with your cardiologist to determine the best treatment plan for your specific situation.

 This AI-generated response comes from MyHeartDiseaseTeam and other selected sources. It is not a substitute for medical advice. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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