Dtsch Arztebl Int
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The choice of type of heart valve prosthesis is determined by the patient's age since bioprostheses have a limited lifespan. This article reviews current recommendations and the literature on cardiac valve replacement. ⋯ The choice of heart valve prosthesis should be tailored to each patient taking into account the patient's age, life expectancy, comorbidities, and life style. Different decisions may be made now than those based on earlier recommendations resulting in an individualized treatment, in patients over the age of 65 or 70.