Frequently Asked Questions
Are physical activities safe?
Physical activities are safe for most patients, but you should talk with your heart doctor to decide what is best for you.
Is it safe to have an x-ray with a Melody valve?
It is completely safe to have an x-ray with a Melody valve.
Is it safe to have a magnetic heart scan MRI with a Melody valve?
You may safely undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning under specific conditions. If you need an MRI scan, tell your doctor or MRI technician that you have a Melody valve.
Is it safe to go through airport security with a Melody valve?
Yes. Airport security systems do not affect Melody valves, and the valve will not set off airport alarms.
How long will my Melody valve last?
The length of time that your Melody valve will last depends on several factors including your unique anatomy and health condition. Some patients may require another procedure to restore function of the conduit or surgical valve. Procedures to restore function of the Melody valve may include non-surgical procedures, such as balloon angioplasty (inflating a balloon to push the valve open so that blood may flow better) or placement of another Melody valve; or open-heart surgery. The table below provides information from Medtronic’s clinical study, showing the number of patients who needed another procedure within 8 years after their Melody valve was implanted.
| Melody TPV US Investigation Device Exemption Study (long-term follow-up) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Time to intervention post-implant | 5 Years | 8 Years |
| Non-Surgical Procedures | 19 out of 100 | 21 out of 100 |
| Surgery | 8 out of 100 | 18 out of 100 |
Online Resources
- Adult Congenital Heart Association: www.achaheart.org
- American Heart Association: www.americanheart.org
- Children’s Heart Foundation: www.childrensheartfoundation.org
- Congenital Heart Information Network: https://www.facebook.com/TCHIN.org/
- European Congenital Heart Disease Organization: http://echdo.eu/
- The International Society for Adult Congenital Heart Disease: www.isachd.org
Medtronic LifeLine Technical Support
With more than 60 years of experience, Medtronic has a very knowledgeable staff who can speak directly with you about non-medical questions you may have about your Melody valve.
Please contact us with any questions or concerns about living with your Melody valve.
Medtronic LifeLine
CardioVascular Technical Support
877-526-7890
Information on this site should not be used as a substitute for talking with your doctor. Always talk with your doctor about diagnosis and treatment information.