|
|
|
HEART VALVE REPLACEMENT When one of the heart valves (usually the mitral or aortic valve) does not function properly, it may lead to gradual damage of the heart muscle and heart failure. The malfunction may be a result of the artery narrowing so that it does not open, or it may be leaking because it does not close tight. Valve surgery may be indicated when the problem is severe before the heart muscle is too weak. An effort is made to repair one’s own valve whenever possible. However, valve replacement may be necessary. Mechanical (metallic) or tissue ("pig") valves are available.
Blood thinners are necessary to prevent clotting of the valve. A yearly
echocardiogram is then needed to detect any prosthetic valve dysfunction.
|
||||||