Ashok's Guestbook

Hello Ashok. My apologies in my delay in responding to your question on my page. As I wrapped up this last week of work and finished my personal prep items for the surgery this upcoming week, many items slipped by me. You asked me why I am choosing tissue at 45 years old over a mechanical valve? (Bicuspid Arotic Valve, Severe Regurgitation). There were reasons I considered based on my age and lifestyle. To start, I evaluated the current state of technological/engineering development in material sciences, design, fluid dynamic output, pressures, etc, including testing, and risk/age factor performance for each valve and each manufacturer. Second I evaluated surgical methods/techniques used for each and their associated risk factors for my age group. Third, I looked at myself, health, activity, and my five year old daughter. I was not willing to go on Coumadin yet. I evaluated everything and based on a positive technological/engineering curve for valve product development, continuing advancements in surgical techniques with decreasing risk factors for all age categories, and what my risk factors will be when I need the next replacement, it became clear to me that I would choose tissue over mechanical. Advancing sciences in technology and engineering, Decreasing risk factors for re-operation with ever increasing improved techniques, and no Coumadin. Done. Tissue at this point. Each person will have very specific personal parameters which should be evaluated when deciding on something as critically important as this. Ask, ask, and continue asking questions. And research everything. Abstracts, studies, companies, history, development advancements, etc. to give you the full picture of the product that will truly be a part of your life for many years to come. Good luck, Ashok! Bill