Question:

How common is it for three heart valves to be replaced successfully?

How common is it to get three valves replaced and will I do good through surgery and not die?

Submitted by Gerry from Perry, Iowa on 12/05/2013

Answer:
by Denton A. Cooley, MD

It is rather unusual for three heart valves to be replaced at the same operation. The success of the procedure depends largely on the extent of disease affecting the myocardium (heart muscle), and of course, the skill of the surgical team.