Guide To Diagnosing And Treating Aortic Stenosis

Aortic Valve Replacement

Some patients are unable to control their symptoms and complications of aortic stenosis through non-surgical or minimally invasive repair methods. In such cases, the patient requires an aortic valve replacement. This refers to the complete excision of the narrowed valve and the installation of a replacement. Replacement valves are made from tissues that come from pigs, cows, or other individuals. Some replacement valves are mechanical and artificial. Artificial mechanical replacement valves mean patients must take blood thinners for the rest of their life. However, they also last longer than biological valves.

Valves made of living tissue do not carry medication requirements, though they do require replacement every ten to fifteen years. While open surgery to replace the aortic valve is most effective, an alternative replacement method is available. Transcatheter aortic valve replacement works the same as a balloon valvuloplasty. However, the replacement valve is inserted before the balloon is deflated and removed. This procedure is common in patients who have already had a valve replacement and need another one.

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