An artificial heart valve is a device implanted in the heart to replace a damaged or dysfunctional valve, which helps maintain proper blood flow through the heart and the rest of the body. Heart valves regulate the flow of blood through the heart’s four chambers, ensuring it moves in the right direction. When a valve becomes narrowed or leaky due to conditions like stenosis or regurgitation, it can lead to complications such as heart failure, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

Types of Artificial Heart Valves

There are two main types:

1. Mechanical Valves:

Made from durable materials like titanium or carbon.

Designed to last a lifetime, making them suitable for younger patients.

Require lifelong use of blood-thinning medication (anticoagulants) to prevent blood clots.

Can produce a faint clicking sound due to the movement of the valve’s parts.



2. Biological (Tissue) Valves:

Made from animal tissues, such as pig or cow valves, or sometimes human tissue.

Do not usually require long-term blood-thinning medication.

Tend to wear out over time, usually lasting around 10–20 years, which may necessitate future replacements.




How It’s Implanted

Heart valve replacement can be done through open-heart surgery or minimally invasive methods, like transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The choice of procedure depends on the patient's health, the valve's condition, and the specific valve needing replacement.

Benefits

Improves heart function and blood flow.

Reduces symptoms like fatigue, chest pain, and shortness of breath.

Enhances quality of life and life expectancy.


Risks

While beneficial, the procedure carries some risks, including infection, blood clots, and valve dysfunction. Regular follow-up with a cardiologist is essential.

Care and Maintenance

Mechanical valves: Lifelong anticoagulation therapy.

Biological valves: Less frequent medication but may require monitoring for eventual replacement.


People with artificial heart valves can generally lead active lives, though it’s important to stay vigilant about heart health, avoid infections, and follow medical advice for medications and lifestyle adjustments.