Heart valves from what animals are used to replace damaged or diseased human heart valves?

The use of heart valves from hogs, or pigs, to replace damaged or diseased human heart valves is based on several important factors. Pigs' valves closely resemble human heart valves in size, structure, and function, making them an ideal candidate for this type of medical procedure. The anatomical and physiological similarities allow for better acceptance by the human body, reducing the risk of rejection compared to valves from other animals.

Additionally, pig heart valves are often used in a procedure called valve replacement or repair through methods such as bioprosthetic valve replacement. These valves are typically treated and processed to minimize immune reactions and increase durability, allowing them to last for several years in a human patient. The use of porcine heart valves has become a common practice due to their effectiveness and well-documented outcomes in patients.

While heart valves from cows, sheep, and goats may also have some anatomical similarities, they are not as frequently used or accepted in heart valve replacement therapies, which is why hogs are the primary source for such procedures.