DarleneW, I'm sorry to hear this. The situation is uncommon, but unfortunately it's not unheard of. What you have is called pannus. Yes, the only solution is to replace the valve. Yes, a tissue valve is generally used as the replacement, since another mechanical valve is likely to grow pannus again. It's an unusual complication, and there would have been no way to predict it ahead of time. Most people who get mechanical valves never need to have that valve replaced again. You just had bad luck. What you want now is for your surgeon to implant the longest-lasting tissue valve he can give you. I'm wishing for you to have the best possible surgical outcome and for you to enjoy a very long time with your next valve.
I just found this site. I had a aortic valve (stainless steel) placed in 3 years ago. Now since shortness of breath they are saying I have scar tissue that is closing the valve 57%. This is crazy! What I am reading is they will have to replace this one and put in a pig valve!!! Have you heard of this?
Darlene
Definitely gto to a place like Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic and help one of their very best surgeons do it. I have had the same valve replaced twice and would hate to thing they couldn't do it a third time if necessary.
This is somewhat unusual. I know of many people that had two or even more open heart surgeries. Each surgery makes it more difficult for have another one but a good surgeon should be able to do it. Especially at such a young age.
I suggest he/she looks another surgeon's opinion.
Please check out www.valvereplacement.com. It is a wonderful site for "valvers" and their families and friends. Best wishes