Valve Replacement and Coronary Bypass

Valve Replacement

Valve replacement surgery is the replacement of one or more of the heart valves with an artificial valve. There are two types of valves presently being used: Biological valves are manufactured from animal or human tissue. These valves have a life span of approximately 12 to 15 years. If biological valves are used the patient generally does not require additional blood thinning medication. Mechanical valves are manufactured from synthetic materials. These valves, because they are made of synthetic materials last longer, but the patient needs to take anti-coagulant medication for the rest of their lives.

Coronary Bypass Surgery

This is the most common type of surgery used for the treatment of coronary heart disease. The surgeon removes a section of a vein from the patient's leg and then carefully grafts the removed vein (attaches) onto the aorta to bypass the blocked part of the artery.

Optional Video: Bypass Surgery