These are frequently asked questions by patients and others wanting to know more about heart valve repair and heart valve replecement especially with the ATS Open Pivot® Mechanical Heart Valve and ATS Simulus Annuloplasty Products. Further information is available on this web site and other links and sources indicated.

	How long will my ATS Open Pivot® Heart Valve last without wearing out?
	ATS Medical has completed laboratory durability testing that indicates the ATS Open Pivot Heart Valve will last the lifetime of any patient. Its projected life is greater than 100 years.
	Why do I need to take anticoagulation medicine after my natural valve is replaced with a mechanical valve?
	Mechanical heart valves are made of material which may be susceptible to blood clot formation on the valve. Anticoagulation medicine slows down the clotting process of the blood to reduce the possibility of clotting. It is important to stay within your prescribed therapeutic range. In the U.S., QAS Home INR Monitoring can provide reliable clinical monitoring in the comfort of your home.
	Is it safe to have an X-ray examination with a mechanical valve?
	Yes.
	Can I go through airport security with a mechanical valve?
	Yes, mechanical valves do not activate any alarms nor do airport security systems negatively affect mechanical valve function. It is always wise, however, to carry your patient identification implant card, especially when traveling.
	Is it safe to have an MRI examination with a mechanical valve?
	The ATS Open Pivot Heart Valve has been found to be safe under predetermined conditions while undergoing an MRI scan. MRI and ATS Open Pivot Valve  MRI and ATS Simulus Ring/Band
	How can I get a replacement of my patient identification card?
	You should keep your patient identification card with you at all times. To order a replacement card, contact the ATS Medical device tracking department at 1-763-553-7736. If you change your place of residence, you should also contact ATS Medical to update your patient record.
	What is the ATS Open Pivot Heart Valve made of?
	The ATS Open Pivot Heart Valve is made of biocompatible carbon surrounded by a polyester fabric ring. The fabric ring is used to sew or attach the mechanical valve to the patient’s heart tissues.
	Why do I need to take antibiotics before going to the dentist?
	Care must be taken to prevent bacteria from entering the blood stream and settling in or near your heart valve, which could cause infective or bacterial endocarditis, an infection that can damage your heart. Antibiotics are prescribed for you before your procedure to prevent this and other possible infections.
	Will I hear the ATS Open Pivot Heart Valve open and close?
	Some patients report that they can hear their mechanical heart valve when it opens or closes. This soft click is normal and may be more noticeable when you are resting or in a quiet room. The ATS Open Pivot Heart Valve is recognized as one of the quietest mechanical heart valves available.1,2
	What tests will I need to diagnose heart valve disease?
	Your physician may suggest the following tests: chest X-ray, electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, coronary catheterization (angiogram).
References 1. Sezai A, et al. Evaluation of valve sound and its effects on ATS prosthetic valves in patient's quality of life. Ann Thorac Surg. 2000; 69:507-512. 2. Hata M, et al. Mid-term results of ATS Open Pivot Bileaflet mechanical prosthetic heart valve. Ann Thorac Cardiovasc Surg. 2000; 6(1):34-38.