During valve repair, parts of a stenotic valve that are stiff or hardened may be cut and separated to help them open wider. Parts of an insufficient valve may be strengthened and shortened to help the valve close more tightly. Through valve repair, the natural anatomy of the heart valves is maintained.

Mitral Valve repair has distinct benefits:

• Retains the patients natural valve
• No life long anticoagulation treatment

If a valve can’s be repaired, it may be replaced with a prosthetic valve. Two kinds of prosthetic heart valves are available.

• Mechanical valves are created from manmade materials.
  Lifetime therapy with anticoagulant medication, to prevent blood clots on or around the valve, is necessary when these types of valves are used.
  
  
• Biological (tissue) valves are taken from pig, cow, or human donors. Biological valves don’t last as long as mechanical valves. However, when biological valves are used, long-term therapy with anticoagulant medication often isn’t necessary.

The surgeon discusses which type of valve is best for you. Factors considered are your age, occupation, the size of your valve, how well your heart is working, your heart’s rhythm, your ability to take anticoagulant medications, and how many new valves you need.