When one of your heart valves fails and is replaced by a bioprosthetic valve from a cow or pig, theres an understanding that the replacement may last 10 to 20 years, though theres no way of knowing for sure. If a second valve replacement is needed, another open-heart surgery puts the patient at risk for complications and a long recovery. But a recent development could make a second valve repair easier on patients by implanting a new valve with a catheter through a small incision in the leg or between the ribs, rather than having to open up the chest.
To continue reading this article or issue you must be a paid subscriber.
Sign in
