In Which Age Groups Is Ozaki Procedure Recommended?
Ozaki surgery can also be performed in young patients. This decision may vary depending on the patient’s individual condition and heart health. Since young patients usually have a long life expectancy, the recommendation in cardiovascular surgery guidelines is to implant a metal valve. However, the decision of the patient, who is well informed about the valves and their results, can also influence the choice of valve to be used in the surgery. Here are the details about whether Ozaki surgery should be performed in young patients:
- Long-Term Success: Young patients seek long-term success in the treatment of valvular heart disease. For this reason, the recommendation of the guidelines in young patients is in favor of a metal valve. Ozaki surgery has been performed in the world for about 16 years and longer studies are needed. However, Ozaki surgery can also be recommended to young patients, depending on the patient’s request and because of the problems of using blood thinners.
- Less Risk of Complications: Younger patients’ bodies are generally healthier and have a greater capacity to heal. Ozaki surgery may reduce the risk of complications related to the use of foreign tissue or artificial valves. At the same time, the ozaki method can be considered in young patients to avoid conditions such as patient-valve incompatibility, which can limit exertion capacity and reduce the comfort of life.
- Active Lifestyle: Younger patients usually have a more active lifestyle and prefer long-term treatment options. Ozaki surgery is the closest valve to the patient’s original valve, and Ozaki surgery can be recommended for young patients who play sports and lead an active lifestyle and do not show postoperative cardiac performance decreases.
- No need for blood thinners: After Ozaki surgery, patients use a mild blood thinner known as aspirin for a maximum of 6 months and do not use heavy blood thinners called warfarin. There is no need to use blood thinners after the sixth month. Any patient who does not want to use blood thinners can opt for ozaki surgery.
As a result, since the ozaki procedure is a biological valve, it is especially recommended for people over the age of 55 and young women who plan to become pregnant. However, ozaki surgery is recommended at any age in young patients who plan to play professional or amateur sports or who do not want life restrictions and in cases where the use of blood thinners is contraindicated.
