What is the difference between a mechanical valve and tissue valve used to treat a blockage in the heart?

Wondering which to choose for your dear ones, read this!

A valve replacement surgery is usually done to replace or repair a diseased valve in the heart. There are four main valves in the heart which function to ensure unidirectional flow of the blood between the different chambers. Even the blood that flows out of the heart to ensure proper circulation in the body passes through a valve. These valves open and close enough of ensure blood flow and stop the blood from flowing in the opposite direction. However, with time and lack of care, which is very evident among Indians the valves ceases to function and loses its capabilities. This is when a valve replacement surgery is done to replace the diseased valve. Surgery is usually considered when medication and other paramedical help fail to ensure smooth functioning of the heart. Know what is the difference between a heart attack and heart blockage?

The four major valves of the heart are:

Aortic valve

Mitral valve

Tricuspid valve

Pulmonic valve

The aortic valve is the most common valve to be replaced, which is situated between the left ventricle and the aorta and is responsible for blood flow throughout the body. When one needs to undergo a valve replacement surgery, there are two options to choose from mechanical valve and tissue valve. While the doctor would be the best person to let you know what suits one s requirement, here is a rundown of the pros and cons of the valves explained by Dr Kaushal Pandey, Cardiac Surgeon, Hinduja Hospital.

Mechanical valve: These valves are made up of pyrolytic carbon and are durable in nature. Ideally, they are supposed to last longer, like, 20 years or more and ensure that one doesn t need a repeat procedure too soon. These valves are usually offered to people who suffer from heart problems and are under 50 years of age. The drawback of having a mechanical valve placed is that it requires anticoagulation medications for its up keep. These medications have their own side effects. It could lead to bleeding and bruising. Some common signs of bleeding are blood in urine, bleeding gums, prolonged nose bleeds etc. Sometimes it could turn fatal in patients. Here are 8 common heart diseases and their symptoms.

However, in India, since most people suffer from rheumatic heart diseases and are less than 40 years of age, mechanical valves are more preferred due to its durability. But in the recent time's usage of tissue valves are also increasing even in younger patients.

Tissue valve: These valves are made up of bovine pericardium and can last up to 12 to 15 years. There are fewer chances of the body rejecting a tissue valve as it is made of the natural compound. They don t need any anticoagulation medication for their maintenance. However, these valves can degenerate over a period of time, which might lead to a redo of valve replacement surgery which has a risk of mortality attached to it. These valves are often given as an option for patient above 50 years of age who needs a valve replacement surgery.

A detailed discussion with your doctor will help you choose the right valve that will save your heart from further complications.

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