Ozaki Procedure for Heart Valve Repair

Also known as: Ozaki procedure, Ozaki procedure for valve replacement, valve neocuspidization

What is Ozaki procedure for heart valve repair?

The aortic valve of the heart connects the heart’s left ventricle with the aorta, the artery that carries blood to the rest of the body. Similarly, the pulmonary valve connects the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery to carry blood to the lungs. When either of these valves is not working properly, an Ozaki procedure is a potential treatment to replace the valve and make it function correctly.

What happens during the procedure?

The Ozaki procedure involves replacing the faulty valve with tissue from the autologous pericardium, or the sac around your heart. The procedure involves gathering this tissue and then using it to repair the valve. It’s a complex open-heart surgery that is performed under general anesthesia and requires a multi-day stay in the hospital.

Is any special preparation needed?

Your child will likely need to undergo several diagnostic tests to determine if they are a candidate for Ozaki procedure. Your doctors may have other guidance depending on the specific nature of the procedure. For example, you may need to avoid food and medication for a period of time before the procedure.

What are the risk factors?

Ozaki procedure does have risks, so it’s important to discuss these risks and potential outcomes with your doctors. For example, bleeding, blood clots, infection or irregular heart rhythms are all possible after the procedure. Despite the risks, in many cases it’s the best treatment option available for the infant with a congenital heart defect, and many children who have undergone the procedure go on to lead healthy, productive lives.

Reviewed by: David Kalfa, MD

This page was last updated on: June 26, 2026 03:11 PM