Are Bioprosthetic Valves Appropriate for Aortic Valve Replacement in Young Patients?

Selection of a prosthetic aortic valve for use in the young patient is complicated by a variety of important considerations. Age, growth potential, activity and life style expectations, child bearing, and social factors, in addition to anatomic considerations, are all important to the recommendation of a prosthetic valve choice. We review the clinical experience and expectations of currently available prosthetic aortic valves available for the young patient, and describe the advantages and disadvantages for each.