Ask An Expert: Duration of Aortic Valve Replacement

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Ask An Expert: Duration of Aortic Valve Replacement

Question:

I recently had an aortic valve replacement and bypass. The valve is a tissue valve (from a pig). How long do these typically last? I understand that it could last five to ten years, but someone told me it could go in two years.

Answer:

First, the good news is that you probably do not need to take "blood thinning" medications after your surgery because it is a tissue valve. Tissue valves have a low risk of blood clots forming on them. A metal-and-plastic "mechanical" valve might last a little longer, but you would need to take a medication to prevent blood clot formation, usually warfarin (Coumadin). Warfarin significantly increases the risk of bleeding complications and requires monthly blood tests to be sure the medication level is right.

The disadvantage of tissue valves like yours is that they can break down. It is pretty unusual to have a valve wear out in two years, and only about 30% of people with tissue valves have problems in the first 10 years — meaning 70% do not. I warn patients that they shouldn't be surprised if problems with their valves develop during the five- to 10-year time frame, but they have a reasonable chance of being problem free even at 15 years.

There are no guarantees how long your valve will last, any more than there are guarantees on how long shoes last. That said, only two years would be very surprising.

Thomas Lee, M.D., is the chief executive officer for Partners Community HealthCare Inc. He is a professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School. He is an internist and cardiologist at Brigham and Women's Hospital. Dr. Lee is the chairman of the Cardiovascular Measurement Assessment Panel of the National Committee for Quality Assurance.

Last updated:	April 23, 2007
Reviewed By:	Faculty of Harvard Medical School