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Diseased heart valves may need to be repaired
or replaced. Most leaking mitral valves can be repaired. Aortic
valves are harder to repair and more frequently need to be replaced.
Heart valve repair retains the normal tissue whereas replacement
involves using an artificial valve.
There are two types of artificial valves, mechanical and
biological. Biological valves consist of animal tissue usually
from a pig or a cow, and usually do not require the use of blood
thinning agents. Mechanical valves are made out of carbon polymers
and metal and usually require blood thinner after insertion.
The type of valve best suited for you depends on a variety of
factors.
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