Evaluation of the durability of bio-prosthetic versus mechanical valves for mitral valve replacement

Introduction Mitral valve diseases affect 18.1 million people every year, and the increased life expectancy has led to increased disability-adjusted life-years. Depending on the type of valve that is used to replace mitral valves, the type of complications differs. While a bioprosthetic valve has a lower bleeding risk than a mechanical valve, the overall durability is generally lower. However, the novel generations of valves are suggested to have better durability. This study was conducted to assess the durability and complications of either type of valve. Materials and methods This study is a retrospective cohort study that assesses the risk factors, complications, performance and durability of valves in short and long follow up. The cases of this study included all patients who had undergone valvuloplasty from 2004 to 2014. Results The results show that the mortality rate and admission duration is not significantly different between the two types of valves. However, reoperation rates are higher among bioprosthetic valves by three times. Cardiac tamponade, pleural effusion, and valvular thrombosis rates are higher among mechanical valves in the short term, while GI bleeding, valvular thrombosis, valvular thrombectomy rates are more prevalent with mechanical valves in the long term. Conclusion While bioprosthetic valves inflict more minor complications their overall durability is less than mechanical valves.