Hi, I’m writing this post on behalf of my brother who is 56 and is otherwise fit and healthy! He found out at the beginning of this year that he needs his aortic valve replaced, mitral valve repaired and possibly a by pass (they won’t know for sure about that until the operation).
He has his date for the op, which is next Tuesday. He still hasn’t made the decision about whether to have a mechanical valve or a bovine valve. His surgeon and cardiologist have said they can’t guide him and have just given him the options. How do you make that decision without guidance from the surgeon?
We are familiar with a mechanical valve because our Mum had one and she really struggled with keeping her INR levels consistent. She unfortunately passed away 11 years ago, partly due to her taking warfarin.
The thought that if he opts for a bovine valve he might need another operation is a worry, or could he possibly have that procedure by TAVI.
I know ultimately it’s his decision, but I wondered if anyone had experiences of either of these options - good or bad! Thank you.