This procedure involves replacing a diseased or defective heart value with an artificial or treated tissue animal valve (bioprosthetic).

A slight shortness of breath after having this surgery is normal. Therefore, walking is encouraged because it strengthens your heart, stimulates circulation and moves blood along, lessening the risk of blood clots.

It is also important to continue your deep breathing exercises to help prevent pneumonia.

For patients with a metal or plastic valve, blood thinner will be taken indefinitely.

For those patients who have a treated tissue animal valve (bioprosthetic), usually blood thinner will be prescribed for a few months. Lab tests at Cardiovascular Clinic or by your cardiologist will be done periodically to adjust blood thinner levels. Make sure any physician you see knows you have had valve surgery.

Proper dosages, times and follow-up appointments are crucial because if unregulated, bleeding or clots could occur and cause heart failure, strokes or other serious circulatory problems.

Staples or sutures will be removed at your follow-up appointment.