Which type of valve surgery may involve the use of materials derived from cows?

Valve repair can involve the use of biological materials, including those derived from cows, known as xenografts. In certain surgical procedures aimed at repairing heart valves, surgeons may use cow pericardium or other tissues as patches or support structures to reinforce the valve or to repair defects. These materials are chosen for their compatibility with human tissue, which helps to reduce the risk of rejection and promotes healing.

This use of animal-derived materials is particularly relevant in procedures where the valve damage is significant, and repairing it with existing tissue is not adequate. In contrast, mechanical valve replacement involves the implantation of synthetic valves that do not utilize biological materials. Angioplasty and coronary stenting focus on the dilation of narrowed coronary arteries and do not involve the heart valves at all.