Mitral Valve re-repair

[sshady]

In November 2023 I found out I had endocarditis. As a result I had surgery to repair my mitral valve. At the time it was successful and I was recovering well. However, when I had my follow up echo, around 3 months later, I found out the valve was leaking again and I am now waiting for surgery once I have completed my studies.

I have been offered the option of tissue or mechanical valve, but I am just curious whether anyone has had their valve repair re-repaired. As a repaired valve is more ideal than a replacement. Or if you know any information on how common re-repair is, or why it is not possible.

Thanks!

[Anon2023]

hi. I had my first mechanical replacement valve then got endocarditis. I had a redo 3 months later as they didn’t diagnose endocarditis straight away and it did a lot of damage to my heart before they worked out what it was. My valve was leaking because the infection had damaged the tissue around it. As I already had a mechanical valve they just replaced it with the same. At that time I was on deaths door anyway so just let them do what they felt was best. Warfarin is a nuisance but it’s a small price to pay for being alive. I suppose each type of valve has its benefits and it depends on your age, lifestyle and overall health. As you say, keeping your own valve, if it can be re-repaired, is the ideal option. Endocarditis was hideous so you have my sympathy. Please look after your teeth as some people get infected through dental issues. know I haven’t answered your question but wanted to let you know that the second op was much easier than the first, even after the endocarditis. X

[sshady in reply to Anon2023]

Hi, thank you for your response. I hope my second op goes how you described yours. Hope you are doing good now!