Tomorrow’s the big day, getting my bovine valve replaced with a new mechanical valve and (likely) mechanical conduit. I appreciate all of the responses and helpful information along the way. **** was gracious enough to meet me for coffee several weeks back since we are in the same city and he let me pick his brain about his 56 years with the same mechanical valve. I’m hoping I’ll get anywhere close to that kind of longevity with my new valve. Ready to get this over with and begin the road to recovery. Wish me luck!