In addition to surgery, people with heart valve disease may receive an artificial heart valve to improve heart function and prevent more serious complications. Doctors can use mechanical or biological valves during procedures.
How long an artificial heart valve lasts depends on the type of valve. Mechanical valves, which can be made from metal or plastic, are intended to last indefinitely. At a minimum, these valves typically last 20 years before they need to be replaced.
Biological heart valves are made from the tissues of animals (cows and pigs), or they can be made from human tissues. These valves do not offer the same longevity as mechanical valves and typically need replacement after 15 to 20 years.
Heart valve replacement surgery can last from two to five hours. Doctors may use a minimally invasive procedure, or they may perform open heart surgery. The heart will be stopped during the procedure and a machine will help the heart and lungs to work until the surgery is complete.
Most people who receive an artificial heart valve remain in the hospital for a period of five to seven days. This is so doctors can monitor your progress and ensure the artificial valve is functioning correctly. Once you are released from the hospital, you may need to attend cardiac rehab, which is a therapeutic program that strengthens the heart after surgery.
People with artificial heart valves will need follow-up care from heart specialists for the rest of their lives. These follow-up visits ensure that the heart valve is functioning correctly. Eating right and exercising is also important to maintaining heart health. With the right approach, many people experience improved health and quality of life after the surgery.