Valvoprotéssica

Valvoprotéssica, often referred to as a prosthetic heart valve, is a medical device designed to replace a diseased or damaged heart valve. These valves are crucial for directing blood flow through the heart's four chambers. When a natural valve is no longer functioning properly due to conditions such as stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leakage), a valvoprotéssica may be implanted to restore normal function.

There are two primary categories of prosthetic heart valves: mechanical and biological. Mechanical valves are typically made of durable materials like pyrolytic carbon and are designed to last a lifetime. However, patients with mechanical valves usually require lifelong anticoagulation therapy to prevent blood clots from forming on the valve. Biological valves, on the other hand, are derived from animal tissues (porcine or bovine) or human donor valves. They often function with less need for anticoagulation but may degrade over time and require replacement.

The decision to use a specific type of valvoprotéssica depends on various factors, including the patient's age, overall health, lifestyle, and the specific valve being replaced. The implantation of a prosthetic valve is a surgical procedure, most commonly performed during open-heart surgery, though minimally invasive techniques are increasingly utilized. Successful implantation aims to alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life, and prolong survival for individuals with severe valvular heart disease. Regular follow-up care is essential to monitor the function of the prosthetic valve and manage any associated complications.