A valve replacement is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or diseased heart valve is removed and replaced with an artificial valve. Heart valves are responsible for regulating blood flow through the heart, and when they are damaged or not functioning properly, it can lead to a range of serious health problems.
There are two main types of valve replacement surgery: mechanical valve replacement and biological valve replacement. Mechanical valves are made of durable materials such as metal or plastic, and tend to last longer than biological valves, but require lifelong blood-thinning medication to prevent blood clots. Biological valves, on the other hand, are made from human or animal tissue, and do not require blood-thinning medication, but may not last as long as mechanical valves.
Valve replacement surgery is typically performed to treat heart valve diseases such as valve stenosis, valve regurgitation, and valve prolapse. These conditions can be caused by congenital heart defects, infections, or degenerative conditions.
There are two main types of valve replacement surgery: mechanical valve replacement and biological valve replacement. Mechanical valves are made of durable materials and last longer, but require lifelong blood-thinning medication. Biological valves are made from human or animal tissue, do not require blood-thinning medication, but may not last as long as mechanical valves.