If you have been informed that you have a leaking (regurgitant) or narrowed (stenotic) aortic valve and require replacement this would be an appropriate operation for you. While few if any durable repair techniques exist for the aortic valve there are several excellent replacement options.
Key Benefits
Will often result in an improvement in your ability to exercise
In many cases is associated with an improvement in life span as compared to remaining on medicine alone
If your doctors have told you that you need to have your aortic valve replaced our surgeons can offer you two well established options for replacement. A biological valve is made from animal tissues (or in some cases the actual animal valve) and has the advantage of allowing many patients the luxury of not requiring blood thinning medications (coumadin). The other alternative is a mechanical replacement. The mechanical valve has the advantage of very long term durability although you will be on a blood thinner (coumadin). Which replacement option is the best for you is an important decision and one that our surgeons working with your cardiologists will spend all the time necessary to ensure that the right choice is made for each individual and that you are fully informed and comfortable with your choice.
3 views of the actual mechanical valve used in the operation
