The heart has four valves which act as one-way doors, directing the flow of blood with each heartbeat through the chambers of the heart and on into the body. If these valves do not open and close as they should, blood no longer flows smoothly. As a result, the heart muscle may have to work harder and you may have shortness of breath, dizziness, pain, or other symptoms. Valve damage may be caused by birth defects, aging, or scarring from rheumatic fever or infection, and most commonly affects the mitral and aortic valves.
Valve surgery is designed either to repair or replace the damaged valves.
There are two types of replacement valves that may be used in this operation. A tissue valve is one taken from an animal and specially prepared for use as a human heart valve. A mechanical valve is made from metal and plastic. You may discuss with your surgeon which valve he plans to use but the final decision is usually made in the operating room at the time of surgery, based on your individual needs. By using this website, you accept the terms of our user agreement .