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Updated: Oct 10, 2026

Implantation of the Syncardia Total Artificial Heart
Published on: July 18, 2014
Malfunction of a Hancock bioprosthesis in the mitral position 24 years after initial implantation
H Niinami1, Y Naito, H Koyanagi
1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Heart Institute of Japan, Tokyo Women's Medical University.
Background And Aims Of The Study:
Although many types of cardiac bioprosthetic valves are currently available, the major disadvantage of their use is limited durability due to progressive structural valve deterioration. Few such valves function beyond 20 years.
Methods:
A 61-year-old man was admitted urgently to our institute with acute mitral insufficiency, 24 years after undergoing mitral valve replacement with a 25-mm standard Hancock porcine bioprosthesis for mitral stenosis.
Results:
Mitral valve reoperation was performed successfully with a mechanical valve. The explanted bioprosthesis showed leaflet perforations and a commissural tear, moderate calcification on the commissures, and pannus overgrowth.
Conclusion:
The findings in this case suggest that individual patient variables, as well as the design and the construction of the valve are major determining factors in the rate of valve failure.
Related Concept Videos
Mitral Valve Prolapse I: Introduction
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Mitral Valve Prolapse II: Assessment and Management
Mitral Regurgitation I: Introduction
Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management
Mitral Regurgitation III: Medical Management

