Which type of heart valve

[butterfingers007]

Hello everyone

I am due to have a heart valve repair. If it is not repairable I’ll have to have a valve replacement.

Anyone had experience of new valves?

Which type did you choose? Mechanical or Organic?

[markeaton]

I certainly would not want to influence your choice as this will depend on your lifestyle and preferences, but over 5 years ago I had a mechanical aortic valve fitted. I had the choice between a tissue valve and a mechanical valve. I chose the latter because I am an active person (running, walking etc) and was told by my surgeon that a tissue valve could probably need replacing in 10-15 years if I kept up my current level of activity. Downside to mechanical is the need to take warfarin for life. However, you get used to it and build it in to your daily routine. You can also check your own INR without regular visits to the anticoagulation clinic

[butterfingers007 in reply to markeaton]

Thank you for your message Mark. Your thought process is exactly the same as mine. I have an extremely active job moving weight store all day. I’ve read of tissue valves failing after 4 years. The thought of this operation every 10 years is not good.