Aortic Stenosis

[Maras1]

I am 52 and more active than most. I was born with a bicuspid aortic valve that has calcified dramatically over the past few years. I will need to have my aortic valvle replaced in the next 6 months. I am hoping to hear from others who have been through this in the past and get their opinion of which valve is the best way to go. I loath the thought of having to take blood thinners for the rest of my life and not being able to go out for a few beers once in a while with friends. But on the other hand, I really don't like the thought of having to have this done several more times as I age. I know ultimately no one can make this decision but me, but I feel that I need more information before I can make that decision. Any opinion is appreciated.

[alex2005]

i have a St. Judes mechanical valve . i had it when i was 32. i had just had an extremely high risk pregnancy and the baby was healthy but premature. he was 3 months old the day of my surgery. i did not know the risks of the surgery when it was preformed. i just knew if it would allow me to see my 3 kids grow up so i went for it. . i am on coumadin for life. it really does not change that much in my life. yes it is sorta a pain when my numbers are higher than they should be and i cant drink a KEYWORD (A) as in one beer . but yes I can drink every now and then in moderation. it has taken me along time to drop my excess weight but once i dropped enough weight it made a difference in the level of drugs i have to take. i would do it again if i had to choose . it has given me a new life and a second chance.