I am going to be 75 in August, already taking Warfarin, so I am leaning to the mechanical valve.
June 19
Neither is universally "better" — it really depends on your age, lifestyle, and health needs. Here's a quick breakdown to help frame the conversation with your doctor:
Tissue Valves (animal or human)
- Last around 10–20 years, so may need replacing eventually
- Usually no need for long-term blood thinners
- Often Show Full Answer
Neither is universally "better" — it really depends on your age, lifestyle, and health needs. Here's a quick breakdown to help frame the conversation with your doctor:
Tissue Valves (animal or human)
- Last around 10–20 years, so may need replacing eventually
- Usually no need for long-term blood thinners
- Often recommended for people over 65
Mechanical Valves
- Very durable — unlikely to ever need replacing
- Require daily blood thinners for life to prevent clots
- Often recommended for people 50 and under
- Make a faint clicking sound, which some people notice A MyHeartDiseaseTeam member shared, "My cardiologist will only use a pig valve on me because they don't want me to be on blood thinners, given the medications I have to take." This is a great example of how personal circumstances shape the decision.
If you're between 50–65, either option might be on the table. Your doctor will weigh your age, overall health, and lifestyle carefully before making a recommendation — so it's worth having a detailed conversation with them.
June 19
Join
Your Privacy Choices
