In December 1995 I had an emergency valve replacement surgery, due to a bicuspid valve and subsequent advanced calcification, not only of the aortic, but mitral valves and septum. I was told the opening of the aortic valve measured .3 cm, and that I was very lucky to be alive. I now have a St. Jude's valve, and am being monitored for my coumadin level every two weeks. I was also told that the valve would probably last a lifetime. I think your cardiologist is wise to look in on you periodically.
Mechanical valves can cause all sorts of problems, such as breakdown of blood cells or infection.
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