There are a number of approaches physicians can take to repair defective heart valves. The best approach depends on the nature of the valve problem, and the unique medical condition of the patient. In some cases, existing heart valves can be repaired. If they cannot be repaired, they can be replaced. Heart valve replacements are either biological, such as those from an animal or human donor, or mechanical. Heart valve procedures can be accomplished during open-heart surgery, or in some cases, through minimally invasive techniques, including minimally invasive surgery and catheter-based procedures.

In 2003, an estimate 95,000 heart valve repair or replacement procedures were performed. The types of valvular heart disease most often addressed by heart valve procedures are narrowed valves (stenosis) or improperly closing valves that allow blood to leak back in the wrong direction (regurgitation).

For some forms of valvular heart disease, neither heart valve repair nor replacement is an option, such as valvular atresia. Other surgeries may be necessary in the treatment of this condition, in which a valve is totally closed at birth.