Elderly man playing guitar for a delighted older woman.

Patient Education

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Replacement heart valve

A replacement heart valve is made of plastic, metal, or animal tissue and is implanted to replace a person's original heart valve. A replacement valve can be implanted during an open-heart surgery or a minimally invasive procedure. These valves are also called mechanical valves or tissue valves.

A person's heart valve may be replaced if it no longer works properly because of a birth defect or because of damage caused by a disease or aging.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.