Heart valve replacement: mechanical heart valve – BHF

If your heart valve is not working properly, you may need surgery to replace it. You'll usually be offered a tissue or mechanical valve. A mechanical valve is normally made from carbon, a light and strong material, and metal. You may hear a mechanical valve being called an artificial or man-made valve. You're more likely to have a mechanical heart valve if you're younger because it can last longer and does not usually need to be replaced. It's also likely to be recommended if you have an active life and play sports. A mechanical heart valve can increase your chances of developing blood clots. So, you'll need to take blood thinning medicine called anti-coagulants for the rest of your life. Some people can hear their mechanical heart valve making a clicking sound. This is normal and the sound of your valve working. It can sound louder when you first have your valve fitted, but over time you'll get used to the sound and many people say they hear it less. Find out more about mechanical and tissue heart valves at bhf. org. uk/replacement.