Length of a Mechanical Valve

[JBriau]

I thought I would share this lettle bit of news I learned.

I was in the city for my dr.s appt. One of the nurses

told me about an article in the paper regarding my cardiologist.

A young women was recommended for avr when she was 23

by my dr. She is 60 years old and just now her valve has failed.

That Mechanical valve lasted her 37 years!! It is remarkable

for a valve to last that long.

Judy

 

[RobThatsMe]

Hi Judy,

I am glad you brought this up. I was thinking this morning about some information I read on here regarding the Mechanical Valves only having around a 25 year life span due to the stitching.

Well this morning I am thinking... hmmmm... in order to have that information from a study, they would have had to of studied patients that had valve replacement at least 25 years ago.

Well, I am sure that the technology and materials that were available then for stitching and the sutures has changed since 1975.

I think I will sleep well knowing that my St. Judes Mechanical Valve will most likely last my lifetime.

Rob

 

[LUVMyBirman]

Hi Judy.

Thanks for the words of encouragement! We can only hope that will be the case. Any chance you could get a hold of that article and post it? Does your local paper have a website?

Must have been the old ball and Cage. Though, it is my understanding that valve implants have been taking place in the US for 30 years? Correct me if I am incorect. Anyone? Canada may have been ahead of the game.

I will take 30+ years anyday!

 

[Nancy]

My husband's aortic valve is 24 years old and still OK.

 

[McCln]

Judy

Judy

Thanks for sharing the information. It is good to know really how long the mehcanical valve will work. I chose this route because I had no desire to have surgery within a short time, ten to five years from now. I am glad with my choice and your information reinforced the choice. You keep hanging in there.

Caroline
09-13-01
Aortic valve replacement
St. Jude's valve