If your valve needs to be replaced, you will need to consider a choice of valve for replacement before the actual date of the operation. The choices are: tissue, bioprosthetic, mechanical or metal.
Mechanical valves are very durable, lasting in many people a lifetime, but they require blood-thinning known as Coumadin therapy. This may require changes in lifestyle to minimize the possibility of serious bleeding. On the other hand, tissue valves don't require blood-thinner or Coumadin therapy, but are less durable. This is important to know if you’re under the age of 70, because the valve could eventually wear out and require a second operation down the road.
The bottom line is the type of valve that’s right for you is a decision best made collaboratively between you and your doctor.