I also agree that I would go with my surgeons recommendation once the decision of valve type is made. Being able to discuss the various valve choices with your doc is a plus, but he/she is the expert. My surgery was much simpler since only one valve was on the market.....but I believe my longevity is, at least partly, due to the surgeons' experience and expertise in fitting and sewing in that valve. To me, the surgeon is much more important that valve tradename. My old valve is considered a relic and would not be used today......but it has lasted me a long, long time......thanks to a very good surgeon....and he was a surgical resident at the time.....but he went on to become Chief of Staff at a major US heart hospital.