I just opened an email from John about [1] bovine valve replacement devices and re-operations. I provided some thoughts for John below but perhaps you can help him as well?

John writes, “Hi Adam - Because of a [2] post-operative complication (possible suture failure creating a leak), it appears I will be facing a re-operation to replace my bovine aortic valve. How can I get some advice from other folks who have encountered this problem?”

Obviously, John raises a good question. So you know, I am aware of several patients that required re-operations for most types of valve replacement devices including [3] mechanical valves.

As with any type of manufactured devices (televisions, hair dryers, watches, etc.), sometimes they fail to work properly. Or, in John’s case, there might be a complication during surgery that forces the patient to have a re-operation.

Yes… This is definitely one of the unfortunate realities and risks of heart valve replacement surgery. That is why I always coach future patients and caregivers to perform the necessary research and due diligence before heart valve surgery.

Bioprosthetic Valve Inserted During Surgery

I am hopeful that you can help John with your experience. By chance, did you have a heart valve replacement re-operation? If so, please [4] click here to share your story.

In advance, thanks!

Keep on tickin!

About The Author: Adam Pick is a double, heart valve surgery patient and author of The Patient’s Guide To Heart Valve Surgery. This unique book integrates the clinical facts of heart valve surgery with the personal experiences of 78 former valve surgery patients to help patients and caregivers better understand the opportunities and challenges of heart valve surgery. [5] To learn more about Adam and his heart valve surgery book, click here.