Valve operation

A valve operation is an open heart operation during which the poorly or non-functioning valve is repaired or replaced. When a valve is repaired, the valve itself is preserved and the abnormality is corrected. If this is not possible, then the valve is replaced by an artificial valve.

If the decision is made to replace the heart valve, either a metal artificial valve or a biological valve will be used. The heart surgeon will discuss which valve is the most appropriate for you.

• Mechanical heart valvesconsist of an artificial ring with hinged valve discs made out of a very strong carbon derivative, and which are responsible for opening and closing the opening.
• Biological valvesare fabricated from animal heart tissue or heart valve tissue that has undergone myriad treatments.

More information can be found in the leaflet below.

Latest publication date: 14/12/2023