A few weeks ago, I posted a blog about Angie’s [1] aortic mechanical valve replacement options.

Becky has a follow-up question that reads, “Hi Adam - My [2] mitral regurg has worsened to the point where I need surgery, according to my cardiologist. I’m 48 and don’t want to go though a second heart surgery so I’m opting for a mitral mechanical valve. What are my options? Thanks, Becky.”

It’s good to see that Becky is aware that she has options for her mechanical valve replacement. Patient awareness is definitely on the rise! Just a few years ago, most patients simply said, “Okay. Okay. I want a mechanical valve. Thanks Doc.”

Now, patients are coming to their surgeons saying, “I want to be in the On-X trial!” or “What can you tell me about the Medtronic replacement?” or “I hear St. Jude’s [3] prosthesis valve is great…. Can I get one of those implanted?”

Ultimately, Becky will most likely rely on her surgeon’s clinical experience to determine the best mechanical valve replacement device for her mitral valve. However, Becky is not powerless. Patients can influence valve selection.

To learn more about each of these mechanical mitral valves, please click the following links:

• [4] On-X mitral mechanical valve replacement
• [5] Medtronic’s Hall mechanical valve

I hope this helps explain a little bit more about mitral mechanical valve replacement devices.

Keep on tickin!

[6] To learn more about Adam and his heart valve surgery book, click here.