Christian
Well-known member
I posted a question on the CCF heart forum (actually, a bunch of them) and got this response to one:
Q: I noticed (from your web site statistics) that the CCF is using far more bioprosthetic valves in the mitral
position. Is this because of the recent introduction of the Carpentier Edwards Perimount Pericardial Mitral Valve?
Are you transplanting this valve in younger (~ 30 years) patients?
A: I think the use reflects the preference of the surgeons to avoid anticoagulation and our younger patient population. In general we like to avoid coumadin if possible. If you do wish to come to the Cleveland Clinic I would recommend Dr. Cosgrove to do the repair if needed. You can make an appointment by calling 1-800-223-2273.
I'm not savvy enough yet to evaluate all the pros and cons of the mitral valve replacement options, but it seems the trend may be beginning to sway towards replacement with a bio valve -- at least at the top heart center in the country.
The remaining text can be found at the Heart Forum at www.medlhelp.org
Note that the doctor made an apparent mistake, claiming the anterior mitral leaflet is easier to fix than the posterior mitral leaflet (how I wish that was true!).
Q: I noticed (from your web site statistics) that the CCF is using far more bioprosthetic valves in the mitral
position. Is this because of the recent introduction of the Carpentier Edwards Perimount Pericardial Mitral Valve?
Are you transplanting this valve in younger (~ 30 years) patients?
A: I think the use reflects the preference of the surgeons to avoid anticoagulation and our younger patient population. In general we like to avoid coumadin if possible. If you do wish to come to the Cleveland Clinic I would recommend Dr. Cosgrove to do the repair if needed. You can make an appointment by calling 1-800-223-2273.
I'm not savvy enough yet to evaluate all the pros and cons of the mitral valve replacement options, but it seems the trend may be beginning to sway towards replacement with a bio valve -- at least at the top heart center in the country.
The remaining text can be found at the Heart Forum at www.medlhelp.org
Note that the doctor made an apparent mistake, claiming the anterior mitral leaflet is easier to fix than the posterior mitral leaflet (how I wish that was true!).
