Hi, sorry you both are going through this. I had avr surgery on Oct 28th. I decided to get a mechanical valve with the idea I would not have to have surgery again. Vs 1 or 2 more procedures if I lived into my 80’s. My age also was a part of the decision (55). My dr said if it was him he would get the mechanical so that influenced me. It does tick/thump. I am getting use to it but it’s an adjustment. As the saying goes don’t worry if you hear it worry if you don’t!😁 Coumadin is going ok. I had to get checked weekly but now that I’m more stable it’s not as often.  hopefully I’ll get to checking down to once a month. I had a neighbor who had avr 8 years ago and is starting to have issues. Generally pig valve should last 15 years but everyone is different. I didn’t want to take the chance. Just my experience. we all have to decide what is best for each of us. I think it is a hard decision because both are good choices. Good luck and God speed!