This document discusses the history and types of prosthetic heart valves. It notes that the first successful open heart surgery using cardiopulmonary bypass was in 1953, while the first mechanical replacement valve was implanted in 1960. There are two main types of prosthetic valves - mechanical valves and bioprosthetic valves. Mechanical valves last longer but require lifelong anticoagulation, while bioprosthetic valves do not require anticoagulation but are less durable. Both valve types can lead to complications like thrombosis, bleeding, and structural deterioration over time.