Valve Replacement
Valve replacement can be used to treat any life-threatening valve disorder. In valve replacement surgery, the damaged valve is removed and replaced with either a mechanical or tissue valve. Mechanical valves are more durable than tissue valves and require lifelong anticoagulation. Tissue valves are generally less durable, requiring replacement sooner than mechanical valves.
Valve Repair
Repairing a cardiac valve preserves the native valve. Not all valves can be repaired, as it’s dependent on the cause of the disorder and the amount of deterioration.