Tekoläppiä

Tekoläppiä, often translated as artificial valves or prosthetic valves, are medical devices used to replace or repair damaged heart valves. These valves are essential for controlling blood flow through the heart, ensuring it moves in the correct direction. When a natural heart valve becomes diseased or damaged, it can lead to a variety of cardiovascular problems, including heart failure and stroke.

There are two main types of tekoläppiä: mechanical valves and bioprosthetic valves. Mechanical valves are made from durable materials like titanium and pyrolytic carbon, designed to last a lifetime. However, they require patients to take anticoagulant medication to prevent blood clots from forming on the valve surface. Bioprosthetic valves, on the other hand, are made from animal or human tissues. They generally do not require long-term anticoagulant therapy but have a limited lifespan and may need to be replaced after 10-20 years.

The decision to use a specific type of tekoläppiä depends on various factors, including the patient's age, overall health, lifestyle, and preferences. The implantation of these valves is a complex surgical procedure, typically performed when conservative treatments are no longer effective. Advances in surgical techniques and valve technology have significantly improved the outcomes and quality of life for patients requiring heart valve replacement.