I had a bio prosthetic valve replaced a couple of years ago. since that time, i have been on blood thinners. i have read that it is not necessary to continue taking blood thinners with an animal valve. is this true?

There are still no clear data with regard to anticoagulation with bio prosthetic valves. Aortic bio prosthesis are anticoagulated for 3-4 months to ensure adequate endothelial coverage whereas mitral bioprosthsis are anticoagulated long term. Anticoagulants are desirable because of atrial dilatation and likelihood of atrial fibrillation and thromboembolism.