Welcome. Valve selection is a very personal one all of us here, except those few lucky ones who can have a repair done, must face. I would venture a guess that this topic has been discussed as much if not more than any other in this forum. Simply put, many factors come into play, like future surgeries for tissue valves when they wear out or going the mechanical route with the hope and expectation that it will last the rest of your life, but it comes with the need for taking Coumadin for the rest of your life. For me, being 53 years old at the time of my surgery and not liking the idea of having another surgery, let alone the potential of two, to replace tissue valves in my lifetime, I chose mechanical. For me, I liked the new generation On-x valve and its potential for reduced anticoagulation needs in the future (there is a long term study looking at that with results expected in a few years). I do not believe in counting on things that are not now fact, so I am comfortable and accepted the fact that if this trial does not show solid evidence of reduced need for anticoagulation, that I will be on coumadin the rest of my life. That being said, being on coumadin has been fine with me in the eight months since my surgery. There are other brands of mechanical valves that have similar benefits too. Many chose tissue valves and are very happy with those -- like I said, its really up to you. I would just suggest doing what you are doing now -- research the types, talk with your cardilogist and surgeon and then make a decision that feels right to you. After all, you're the one who has to live with it in the end.
Best wishes on your selection and your upcoming surgery.