New Study Sheds Light On What Matters To Patients Facing Heart Valve Replacement
by Health New Zealand · SCOOPWaikato Hospital’s cardiothoracic department has identified practical ways to support patients who are making complex, life-changing decisions about heart valve surgery.
The department has explored the experiences of people with rheumatic heart disease who had undergone valve replacement surgery.
For many patients, surgery involves choosing between a mechanical valve, which may last for life but requires ongoing blood-thinning medication, or a tissue valve, which does not usually require lifelong medication but may need to be replaced in the future.
The Department’s study found patients carefully consider different outcomes when choosing, with some prioritising avoiding medication and others wanting to reduce the likelihood of repeat surgery. Trusted advice from clinicians, particularly surgeons and cardiologists, played a central role in decision-making.
Most patients reported feeling supported in their decision making and said they would choose the same valve again.
The research also highlights opportunities to build on existing care, particularly in supporting patients over the longer term. These include reinforcing information about medications and monitoring, supporting follow-up after surgery, and better understanding barriers that can make it difficult for some patients to access dental care – which is important for maintaining heart health.
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The study found some patients would benefit from clearer understanding of anticoagulation medicines and follow-up care, with around one-third reporting they had not seen a cardiologist after surgery and nearly half not accessing dental care.
The findings also highlight some of the practical challenges faced by patients living with rheumatic heart disease, particularly those in rural or higher-deprivation communities, where ongoing access to care can be more difficult.
Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon and Associate Professor Nishith Patel, senior author and principal investigator on the study, says the findings provide a valuable evidence base for continuous improvement.
“Choosing a heart valve is a complex and highly personal decision. This research will help us support patients and families through that process, both at the time of surgery and in the years that follow.”
The findings are already informing ongoing work. Researchers are developing a multilingual digital app to complement conversations between patients, their families and clinical teams, helping people understand their treatment options before appointments, revisit information afterwards, and access support as questions arise during their long-term care journey.
“Combining these critical patient insights with clinical expertise, we can continue to shape services and resources that better support people living with rheumatic heart disease.”
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