Metal HEART valves

[15bazza]

In 2006 had prosthetic heart valve and now it needs replacing operation is very soon done know if I should go for a metal one 54 now ,prosthetic valve should take me to 70 but knowing the operation it can take a lot out of you , want someone with metal valves to give me some views thanks !😊

[Maisie2014]

My aunt had a total of 4 valves over her lifetime. Her last one was metal when she was in her seventies. She lived into her eighties.

[15bazza in reply to Maisie2014]

Thanks for sharing that bless her

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

Hello and welcome to the forum! It is a tricky choice as there are many factors to consider. If it was me I would go for the "metal" one. A few here have had them for forty year. It's main disadvantage is a lifetime of Warfarin. However, whereas it used to be off to the Warfarin Clinic every fortnight many are now home monitoring. Good luck with whatever one you choose!

[15bazza in reply to MichaelJH]

Thanks for that Michael

[gladliz in reply to MichaelJH]

Regards your comment about warfarin, I have noticed that several people complain about haveing to have frequent tests. Is this because their readings are not stable? I have paro xysmal Afib but usually go 8 -10 weeks between tests so it's not a problem.

[15bazza in reply to gladliz]

Thanks for that

[15bazza in reply to MichaelJH]

Thanks think that's the way forward

[werd]

Had my valve in 1974 when I was 26.now 72.i self monitor and dose. Machine costs 300 pounds. Before buying check with gp that you will get strips on prescription. I personally do not get why people are adverse to taking drugs for the rest of their lives. As the song goes ( I don't want to die before I get old)

Yours drew

[15bazza in reply to werd]

Thanks for that information check with gp

[flamepoint]

My partner had a tissue valve in 2005 and this was replaced last year by another tissue valve. Quite a long and difficult decision but due to other health issues did not want warfarin. The hospital told were happy with our decision and hope that by the next time a Tavi procedure which does not require open heart surgery will be appropriate, which is what Mick Jagger received. Do discuss it with your doctors. Also make sure you eat well and get as fit as possible for surgery-it does make a difference. My partner,despite being 15 years older recovered better from this surgery than the previous one. Worth googling for sites that give dietary advice on what to eat etc to build yourself up. Also lots of information on web about Tavi. Best wishes.

[15bazza in reply to flamepoint]

Thanks for advice

[road2ruin]

As others have said, you know what open heart surgery is like, and at 54, you are still young. I was 49 and went for a mechanical valve, this was only 8 months ago. The warfarin can be a nuisance, but I have just bought myself a home monitor, so hopefully that will help.

The only other thing that is sometimes uncomfortable is the ticking noise I can sometimes hear. For me it is till early days though and I am sure I will get used to it or maybe even forget it's there. My wife doesn't notice it anymore.

Good luck

Peter

[ILowe in reply to road2ruin]

I actually find it useful that I can hear my heart! No more fiddling with wrist or neck pulse.

[15bazza in reply to road2ruin]

Thanks Peter for that will take it onboard

[Paul62]

Hello 15bazza

I too had a bioprosthetic valve by OHS in 2006 (aortic) which now requires replacing. I have been offered a TAVI procedure, open heart surgery hasn't been mentioned. Has your cardiologist not suggested this as an alternative way to replace your valve?

Regards

Paul62

[15bazza in reply to Paul62]

No he hasn't got a phone conference call with him on Tuesday I will mention it to him thanks