Adam 's Journal

Marie Myers  How long the tissue valve will last is the million dollar question. Picking a valve was the hardest decision I ever made. I was 63 at the time of my surgery, and I ultimately chose the tissue valve. The Resilia was not a choice at the time, and I got the Edwards Magna ease. So far, I am 4 years along and doing well. I sometimes worry that I am too active for my valve, and I hope I don’t wear it out prematurely. Some people on this site needed a redo at 5 years, some 7 or 8. Obviously I am hoping for 15 -20 years, but only time will tell! The younger people who get the mechanical valves seem to do well with them, and I understand that once you get the warfarin dose down, it is not difficult. Hopefully others will chime in on their experiences, especially those with mechanical valves.

Rose Madura  I was 59 when I decided on a tissue valve. It was a tough decision. Mainly went with tissue because I didn't want to be on warfarin. I'm with Marie...that was probably the toughest decision of the whole process. It's a very personal one and whatever you choose will be the right choice for you. There is no wrong choice to make. That's why it is hard. Best wishes and keep us posted.

Mike Dotson  As mentioned, it is a personal choice indeed. I went mechanical (On-X) and have no regrets. To me, Warfarin hasn’t been that big of a deal at all. For some people it is, and I certainly understand that. For me, the benefit of reducing my odds for a redo far outweighed not taking Warfarin. Best of luck to you with this difficult (and sometimes madining decision.