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Reoperation for a Starr-Edwards aortic valve implanted 28 years earlier
Katsuhiko Yoshida1, Genyo Fujii, Shuichi Suzuki
1Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Cardiovascular Center, Aichi Prefectural Owari Hospital, 2135 Kariyasuka, Yamato-cho, Ichinomiya, Aichi 491-0934, Japan.
The Japanese Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery : Official Publication of the Japanese Association for Thoracic Surgery = Nihon Kyobu Geka Gakkai Zasshi
|September 17, 2002
Summary
A 56-year-old man with a history of aortic valve replacement experienced dyspnea due to severe mitral regurgitation. His worn Starr-Edwards aortic valve was replaced along with the mitral valve.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- A 56-year-old male presented with dyspnea 28 years post-aortic valve replacement for aortic regurgitation.
- Initial chest radiography revealed cardiomegaly, pulmonary edema, and pleural effusion.
Observation:
- Echocardiography identified severe mitral regurgitation.
- The patient had a Starr-Edwards ball valve (aortic) implanted 28 years prior.
Findings:
- The patient underwent successful mitral valve replacement with a St. Jude Medical prosthesis.
- The original Starr-Edwards aortic valve was replaced with a CarboMedics prosthetic valve due to wear and pannus formation.
- Postoperative recovery was uneventful, with discharge on day 35.
Implications:
- This case highlights the long-term durability challenges and potential complications associated with older mechanical heart valves.
- It underscores the importance of regular cardiac monitoring and timely intervention for prosthetic valve dysfunction.
- Successful re-operation demonstrates the feasibility of managing complex valve pathology in patients with prior cardiac surgeries.