| Re: porcine v.s. mechanical valve
Thanks, Lilacs. Unfortunately my doctors (both the cardiologist and surgeon) are leaving this decision totally up to me. They both say that either is fine. The only draw back they cited at first for the mechanical valve is that blood levels need to be checked frequently due to the cumadin, making this choice a little more inconvenient. Last visit, the cardiologist also mentioned that risk of infections is more prevalent with the mechanical valve. I've also been told that blood thinners may be needed for the first few (up to 3) months with the biological valve, but I think this is what I am leaning towards. I figure by the time I will need to have this replaced, I will still be young enough to withstand another surgery and technologic advances continue to be made so that the surgery may be a lot less invasive in another 10-15 yrs. Best of luck to your son. He is in good hands.
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