Biological and Mechanical Heart Valves Under a New Spotlight: Paradigm Shift and New State of the Art

Abstract

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Optimizing aortic valve prosthesis selection in patients with obesity: Institutional experience with multidisciplinary perspective

“…For instance, mechanical valves may pose a higher risk of bleeding due to the need for regular anticoagulant use, potentially leading to delayed recovery, increased mortality, and morbidity. 4 On the other hand, bioprosthetic valves may require a second intervention in the medium to long term as the valve deteriorates, which can be seen as a risk factor. 5 Although no comparative study on mechanical and bioprosthetic valve differences in patients with obesity has been conducted in the literature, there is a belief that obesity may accelerate the structural degradation of bioprosthetic valves.…”

“…While mechanical valves offer a longer life span, the need for anticoagulation therapy can significantly impact patients’ quality of life. 4 Bleeding risks associated with anticoagulation often limit patients’ ability to engage in effective exercise, and mechanical valves can lead to hemolysis. 4 Conversely, bioprosthetic valves provide an improved quality of life but carry an increased risk of requiring redo surgeries.…”

“…4 Bleeding risks associated with anticoagulation often limit patients’ ability to engage in effective exercise, and mechanical valves can lead to hemolysis. 4 Conversely, bioprosthetic valves provide an improved quality of life but carry an increased risk of requiring redo surgeries. 5 Both the risk burden of anticoagulation and the potential need for redo surgeries contribute to increased mortality and morbidity risks for aortic valve disease patients with obesity in the short and long term.…”