Medtronic stentless Freestyle® porcine aortic valve replacement

Abstract

Biological heart valve prostheses offer the opportunity of avoiding the risk of thromboembolic and hemorrhagic complications due to anticoagulation therapy. Current indications recommend a bioprosthesis for aortic valve replacement in patients of any age, who will not take warfarin or who have major medical contraindications to anticoagulation therapy (Class I), in patients older than 65 years without risk factors for thromboembolism (Class IIa) and in patients under 65 years for lifestyle considerations after detailed discussion of the risks of anticoagulation versus the likelihood of a second valve replacement [1]. © 2010 Steinkopff.