After cardiac valve replacement, which valve is most commonly replaced in patients?

The aortic valve is the most commonly replaced valve in cardiac valve replacement procedures. This is primarily due to the prevalence of aortic stenosis, particularly in older populations, as well as aortic regurgitation, which can accompany conditions such as infective endocarditis or rheumatic heart disease.

The aortic valve plays a crucial role in regulating blood flow between the heart and the aorta, and as populations age, degenerative changes lead to significant stenosis or dysfunction, necessitating surgical intervention. Additionally, replacement of the aortic valve is often performed through approaches that are well-established and have favorable outcomes, further contributing to its commonality in surgical practice.

In contrast, while the mitral valve is also frequently involved in cases of valvular disease, the aortic valve remains the most commonly replaced due to its specific vulnerabilities and the rising incidence of conditions affecting it, especially in the aging demographic. The tricuspid and pulmonic valves are less commonly replaced, as their issues often reflect more complex clinical scenarios and are less prevalent compared to those affecting the aortic valve.