Bioprosthetic heart valves become infected within 3 months of implantation while mechanical heart valves take approximately a year for symptoms to manifest.

Question

Bioprosthetic heart valves become infected within 3 months of implantation while mechanical heart valves take approximately a year for symptoms to manifest.​

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Both bioprosthetic and mechanical heart valves can become infected at any time after implantation, and the timing of infection manifestation does not strictly depend on the type of valve. The risk of infection, known as prosthetic valve endocarditis, is not solely determined by the valve type but by various factors including surgical technique, patient health, and postoperative care.

Bioprosthetic Heart Valves Become Infected Within 3 Months of Implantation