Prosthetic Heart Valves

Question 1

What are the common indications for valve replacement?

Answer 1

1. Aortic stenosis - most common
2. Mitral regurgitation — 2nd most common

Question 2

Bioprosthetic valve : Use

Answer 2

Used in older patients
Lifespan - 10 years only
Do not require anticoagulation

Question 3

Mechanical valve : Use

Answer 3

Lifespan >20 years
Anticoagulant : Warfarin
INR 2.5 - 3.5

Question 4

Mechanical valve : Complication

Answer 4

• Thrombus formation (blood stagnates and clots)
• Infective endocarditis (infection in the prosthesis)
• Haemolysis causing anaemia (blood gets churned up in the valve)

Question 5

TAVI : Indication

Answer 5

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation
Indic : Severe aortic stenosis - in patients at high risk for open valve replacement

Bioprosthetic valve - no anticoagulation needed