Even if recommended by your doctor, it is always your choice whether or not to have surgery. But, it is important to understand the possible results of this decision.

Without valve replacement surgery, you will remain at risk for the progression of a serious and life threatening illness. Though no one can truly predict the outcome of your specific situation, it is possible that you will continue to experience poor health and possibly the loss of your life. Without a corrective valve procedure, half of the patients who develop symptoms of fainting will most likely lose their lives within 3 years. And, half of the patients that develop a heart condition known as congestive heart failure will most likely lose their lives within 2 years.

Furthermore, if your symptoms persist and worsen, the risk of complications associated with having this surgery at a later time, rises dramatically. At this time you may no longer be a candidate for surgery.

These statistics can be surprising, but remember, everything depends on your particular situation. The final decision to have or not have this surgery rests with you, but your concerns related to this decision should be discussed with your doctor at length. Together, you and your doctor can come up with a treatment that is comfortable for you.