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The Question
05/23/09 12:45 PM

"I am 68, have been a type 1 diabetic for over 50 years. I am scheduled for a heart valve replacement. Doctor prescribes mechanical valve."
Asked By: hartford  
Category: Heart Disease and Diabetes

Background Info Hide
Will have to take coumadin. Am concerned about bleeding aspects when testing, I test 10 times a day, and pump insertion. I am on pump. I can have a tissue valve and not have to take coumadin, only for 2-3 months. Do you have any information on diabetics that have had this done and what valve they used. Any other information about the procedure would be helpful in deciding to have tissue over mechanical valve.

Expert Answers (1)

05/31/09 09:46 PM

Dear Hartford: If the doctor is prescribing a mechanical valve, then it's probably your best option. I actually consulted with a cardiologist friend of mine and he agreed (based on the info you provided us), that a mechanical valve is your best bet. Although Coumadin does increase the risk of bleeding, many people with diabetes take coumadin for life with no major problems. The coumadin dose should be adjusted and monitored frequently (weekly) to make sure you are not at high risk of bleeding. You are a good example that diabetes is not a deadly disease, since you have been living with it for 50+ years. Good luck with your surgery and thank you for visiting dLife.
Answered By: Sonia Angel
Accreditations: MS, RD, CDE
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