If you have a heart valve problem requiring valve replacement, the next big question is with what type of valve you should get it replaced.
Currently two types of artificial valves are being used commonly.
1. Mechanical valves- These are valves made up of special metals.They are readily available, easy to implant and have excellent long term durability. The downside is that a blood thinning medicine has to be taken lifelong to prevent clotting of the valve. To ensure that the blood is adequately thin, a blood test is required almost once a month.
Currently this valve is preferred in patients less than 60 years of age. However, women in child bearing age wanting to have a family should refrain from having this valve as pregnancy with anticoagulation is risky both for mother and the child. for such patients and those patients in whom anticoagulation cannot be given the next variety of valve is preferred.
2. Bio-prosthetic valve- These valves are made up of cow or pig tissue. The main advantage is that blood thinning medicine can be stopped after 3 months. The downside is that the valve has a life of 10-15 years. After which the valve may fail and require a re-operation. This valve is preferred in patients more than 60 years of age and in patients where anticoagulation cannot be used.
Currently two types of artificial valves are being used commonly.
1. Mechanical valves- These are valves made up of special metals.They are readily available, easy to implant and have excellent long term durability. The downside is that a blood thinning medicine has to be taken lifelong to prevent clotting of the valve. To ensure that the blood is adequately thin, a blood test is required almost once a month.
Currently this valve is preferred in patients less than 60 years of age. However, women in child bearing age wanting to have a family should refrain from having this valve as pregnancy with anticoagulation is risky both for mother and the child. for such patients and those patients in whom anticoagulation cannot be given the next variety of valve is preferred.
2. Bio-prosthetic valve- These valves are made up of cow or pig tissue. The main advantage is that blood thinning medicine can be stopped after 3 months. The downside is that the valve has a life of 10-15 years. After which the valve may fail and require a re-operation. This valve is preferred in patients more than 60 years of age and in patients where anticoagulation cannot be used.
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