Biological flap versus mechanical flap
Mechanical flap
Biological flap Li Xuewen, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital
Materials
Made of high grade synthetic materials
Made of advanced synthetic materials and complex chemically treated biological tissue membranes
Advantages
Good durability
Low re-operation rate
No lifelong anticoagulation required
Good biocompatibility
Low thromboembolism rate
No noise
Disadvantages
Lifetime anticoagulation required (due to susceptibility to thrombosis or hemorrhage)
Noisy
Not as durable as mechanical valves
Age
Suitable for young people
Suitable for older people (>65 years)