valve choice
valve choice
I was only ten when I had my first surgery(MVR) back in 1975 and all I can remember regarding the type of valve I got, was that it was dura-mater. Again, I was the first child to survive this procedure in the country so, I guess the surgeon did what he considered to be the only thing that might save my life, and it did. Five years later I needed it replaced again with another dura-mater one which then lasted for nearly 16 years. I don't remember ever having heard that my mum had a choice, and I don't even think she was aware that there was more than one type of valve. Anyway, by the time the third surgery came, the surgeon in charge asked me what I preferred after explaining the pros and cons of either mechanical and tissue. I didn't have much knowledge on the subject except that the mechanical would probably last a long time and I would need to take warfarin, but getting pregnant would be very risky. Well, I opted for another tissue which I've now had for over nine years. I've been told that I'll need my fourth within a couple of years because the valve is narrowing. I've always known that it would eventually happen, but I'll go tissue again despite the fact that it will also wear out sooner or later. Do you have a choice at all if you do end up having to replace it, or is it really up to your surgeon? Maybe you could start researching the pros and cons too and see what suits you best since it's a very personal decision and you're the one who will have to live with it. Just a thought! I wish you all the best.
Débora
