Ask a Texas Heart Institute Doctor
Informed patients make better patients.
Question:
How does one decide whether to replace a heart valve with a mechanical or biological one? I am 53 years old and have a leaking aortic valve that needs to be replaced. I am in good health and have an active lifestyle with my 10-year-old son. Which valve option would be better for me, mechanical or biological? Thank you!
submitted by Mark, from Bentonville, Arkansas, on 2/9/09
Answer:
by Texas Heart Institute cardiovascular surgeon, J. Michael Duncan, MD 
Mechanical and biological valves each have advantages and disadvantages. Mechanical valves are very durable and when cared for properly, should last for the life of the patient. The disadvantage is that with most mechanical valves, the patient must take blood thinners to prevent the valve from clotting. Biological valves generally do not require long-term anticoagulation (blood thinners) but these valves may degenerate (wear out) over time, necessitating another valve replacement operation. You will have to make that decision for yourself.
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| Heart Information Center services are made possible in part by a generous gift from the Hamill Foundation. |
Updated February 2009
