Kellie ask how long porcine replacement heart valves last

Hi Kellie, thanks for the question. How long they last will vary from person to person, but on average 8 out of 10 tissue valves are working after 12-15 years. If this type of valve is put in a younger person who is very active, it may wear out quicker than this. However in someone who is older, the valve may last for the rest of their life.

For more information about the different types of valves you can have and their advantages and disadvantages, see our booklet, heart valve disease.