When the heart valves fail to work properly, the result is extra strain on the heart. Using a number of criteria, your doctor may recommend surgery. Valves can be repaired or replaced depending on each unique case. During valve repair, the surgeon may reshape the valve, or add support to it. Valve replacement means that a new valve made of either metal or plastic (mechanical valve) is inserted or the valve may be from a human donor (biological valve). Another type of valve is the pig valve, also called a porcine valve and the cow valve, better known as a bovine valve.

After this open heart surgery, patients usually take medications called anticoagulants to prevent blood clots from forming around the new heart valve. This treatment helps the new valve work properly.