If you’re suffering from mitral valve disease or aortic valve disease, you probably know by now if you are going to need surgery or not on your valves. If you do need surgery, you probably also know if you’re going to need a valve repair or a replacement. For this article, we are focusing on those patients who will need a valve replacement.

When it has been decided that you need a valve replacement, the next decision becomes, “Do I need a mechanical valve or a biological tissue valve?” It is up to you if you want to make this decision alongside your doctor, or if you just trust the doctor’s judgment. However, since it is your heart, it’s always good to know what these valves are and the differences between them.

Mechanical Valves – A mechanical valve can last inside a person’s body for more than 20 years. They are made from pyrolytic carbon. Most likely, you will only need valve surgery once, and never have to replace the valve. Unfortunately, mechanical valves can cause blood clots, so to combat this a patient needs to be on blood thinners, like Coumadin, for the rest of his or her life to prevent clots from forming in the valve. These valves are good for people under 60 years old. If a patient is already on a blood thinner, then a mechanical valve is an easier choice. Sometimes, mechanical valves can be heard when they are open and closing, but most patients are not disturbed by the noise.

Biological Valves – A biological tissue valve comes from pig heart valves or a cow heart sac. Biological tissue valves often have to be replaced because they only last 10 to 18 years. A patient’s life expectancy is highly considered with this valve, since he or she will most likely need another surgery when the first tissue valve degenerates. The valves are recommended for patients 60 years old or older. If the patient doesn’t want to be on a blood thinner for life, a biological tissue valve is the way to go.

So, which heart valve do you choose? This is entirely up to you, your age, your health history and your doctor’s expert medical opinion. Weigh the pros and cons of each valve. You want to choose the best option for you to lead the healthiest life.

If you’re looking for a cardiac surgeon to perform your heart valve surgery and discuss valve replacement options, book a consult with Dr. Peter Mikhail who is based in New Port Richey, Florida. Dr. Mikhail is one of the foremost authorities and specialists in mitral valve surgery and he also performs mini-AVR. To book a consultation, click here or call his office at 727-312-4844.