Adult Echocardiography Practice Exam

A porcine prosthetic mitral valve replacement is classified as a tissue valve. This type of valve is made from biological materials, specifically from the heart valves of pigs (porcine), and is used in heart valve replacement surgery due to its ability to mimic the natural function of human heart valves. Tissue valves, including porcine valves, are prized for their biocompatibility, which generally results in a lower risk of thrombosis compared to mechanical valves.

Tissue valves are often preferred for certain patient populations, such as older adults or those who may not tolerate anticoagulation therapy, because they typically do not require long-term anticoagulation. Understanding the nature of tissue valves, as well as their advantages and disadvantages, is crucial for making informed decisions about valve replacement options in clinical practice.