Endocarditis
Endocarditis is an infection of the heart valves which can cause severe illness if untreated. Spectrum Health uses a multidisciplinary approach of cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, infectious disease and neurologists to come up with the best care plan for patients. This plan can include antibiotic treatment or open heart surgery to replace the infected valve.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with endocarditis that requires surgical intervention, contact Cardiothoracic Surgery at 616.459.7258. Our expert cardiothoracic surgeons will work closely with referring physicians and other specialists to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
Treatment options
Antibiotics can treat endocarditis in most cases. You may also need heart surgery to repair or replace heart valves or remove infected heart tissue. A cornerstone of Spectrum Health’s heart and vascular care is cardiothoracic surgery. Our team of expert surgeons at the Fred and Lena Meijer Heart Center provide sophisticated techniques and unique lifesaving surgical solutions to deliver an outstanding patient experience.
Along with very important lifestyle changes, there are a variety of medicines used to help treat heart conditions. Medicines for heart disease are used to ease discomfort or lessen symptoms, but some can also be essential in preventing life-threatening episodes. It is important to take your medicines exactly as prescribed, and work with your doctor on both lifestyle and medicine changes.
During this procedure a surgeon can repair or replace the mitral valve.
Make an Appointment
Contact us to learn how to take the next step and get an appointment with one of our specialists.