What valve replacement device did this patient have implanted previously for aortic valve disease?

• A. Porcine bioprosthetic aortic valve
• B. St. Jude aortic valve replacement
• C. Balloon valvuloplasty
• D. Mechanical aortic valve

Answer: (B)

Recognizing the type of valve prosthesis implanted helps distinguish between valve replacement devices. The St. Jude aortic valve replacement is a mechanical heart valve prosthesis, chosen for durability and long-term performance. This sets it apart from a porcine bioprosthetic valve, which is tissue-based and not a St. Jude device, and from balloon valvuloplasty, which is a procedure to open a stenotic valve rather than a implanted device. Mechanical valves like St. Jude are radiopaque, have a rigid frame with moving leaflets, and require lifelong anticoagulation due to their durability. Thus, identifying the device as a St. Jude valve points to a mechanical valve replacement.