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Heart Disease (Expert Forum)
valve replacement options
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valve replacement options
by Jim_Bowker, Oct 10, 2001 12:00AM
I am scheduled for aortic valve replacement surgery this month, and I have not yet decided between whether to get a homograft replacement valve or a mechanical valve. Although I’m fairly well-versed on the risks and benefits of either procedure, I have one remaining question which I do not feel I’ve had sufficiently well answered.
Although a homograft is expected to last 10 or 12 or 15 years before a second surgery will be required, I've suffered from fatigue over the past 10 years--most of which can be most readily attributable to my moderate to severe aortic insufficiency. What I’m wondering is whether the expected lifetime of a homograft exceeds the time in which one might begin experiencing fatigue as a symptom of valvular calcification. Or, put another way, although a homograft might last between 8 and 15 years, is it likely that it'll only be 5 or 6 or 7 before the onset of fatigue due to the process of calcification. Or would the onset fatigue come later (and signal the need for valve replacement).
To some extent, the type of valve replacement I choose is dependent upon what I can learn about this particular issue. Any information you could share would be greatly appreciated.
Although a homograft is expected to last 10 or 12 or 15 years before a second surgery will be required, I've suffered from fatigue over the past 10 years--most of which can be most readily attributable to my moderate to severe aortic insufficiency. What I’m wondering is whether the expected lifetime of a homograft exceeds the time in which one might begin experiencing fatigue as a symptom of valvular calcification. Or, put another way, although a homograft might last between 8 and 15 years, is it likely that it'll only be 5 or 6 or 7 before the onset of fatigue due to the process of calcification. Or would the onset fatigue come later (and signal the need for valve replacement).
To some extent, the type of valve replacement I choose is dependent upon what I can learn about this particular issue. Any information you could share would be greatly appreciated.
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-M.D.-CRC, Oct 10, 2001 12:00AM
Dear Jim,
In general valve calcification, be it native or homograft, does not cause fatigue. The main reason for valve failure (and fatigue) is a return of the regurgitation. You can find many opinions here from people who have had both types of valves but ultimately the choice will be between you and your surgeon. Best wishes.
In general valve calcification, be it native or homograft, does not cause fatigue. The main reason for valve failure (and fatigue) is a return of the regurgitation. You can find many opinions here from people who have had both types of valves but ultimately the choice will be between you and your surgeon. Best wishes.
Do a search on the Ross procedure on the web, a two valve option. I believe you'll find recent studies will show the surgery to have long last effects, no guarantees of course.
John Lutes
Ross Procedure Alum 1999