Related Experiment Video

Updated: Sep 27, 2026

A Rodent Model of The Ross Operation: Syngeneic Pulmonary Artery Graft Implantation in A Systemic Position
11:20

A Rodent Model of The Ross Operation: Syngeneic Pulmonary Artery Graft Implantation in A Systemic Position

Published on: April 1, 2022

Mitral valve replacement in children

Eldad Erez1, Kirk R Kanter, Elizabeth Isom

  • 1Division of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

The Journal of Heart Valve Disease
|February 13, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Mitral valve replacement (MVR) is a viable surgical option for children over 2 years old with non-repairable mitral valves. However, MVR after failed atrioventricular septal defect repair in younger children carries significant risks.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Cardiac Surgery
  • Congenital Heart Disease

Background:

  • Mitral valve repair in children has improved but is not always successful.
  • Mitral valve replacement (MVR) is an alternative for non-repairable valves.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review a 20-year experience with mitral valve replacement (MVR) in pediatric patients.
  • To evaluate outcomes and identify risk factors associated with MVR in children.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of 90 pediatric patients undergoing 102 MVR operations from 1980 onwards.
  • Analysis of patient demographics, etiology of valve disease, surgical procedures, and outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Hospital mortality was significantly higher in children under 2 years old (52%) compared to older children (3%).
  • Major late events included bleeding, thromboemboli, and cardiomyopathy requiring heart transplantation.
  • Failed atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) repair followed by MVR in young children was associated with high morbidity and mortality.

Conclusions:

  • Mitral valve replacement (MVR) is a suitable surgical choice for children over 2 years with irreparable mitral valves.
  • MVR in children under 2 years, especially after failed AVSD repair, is associated with substantial risks and should be carefully considered.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management01:26

Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management

Mitral stenosis, a condition marked by the narrowing of the mitral valve, necessitates an integrated approach for effective management. This approach includes preventative measures, medical therapy, and surgical interventions to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.PreventionPrevention of mitral stenosis primarily focuses on reducing the incidence of bacterial infections, particularly streptococcal infections, which can lead to rheumatic fever and subsequent valvular damage. Timely...
Mitral Regurgitation III: Medical Management01:25

Mitral Regurgitation III: Medical Management

Mitral regurgitation (MR) is characterized by retrograde blood circulation from the left ventricle into the left atrium due to inadequate mitral valve closure. The severity of the condition, symptoms, and underlying cause determine treatment strategies.Monitoring and Pharmacological TreatmentPatients with mild to moderate MR typically do not need immediate intervention but regular monitoring to assess progression and guide treatment. Patients with mild MR should have an echocardiogram every 3-5...
Mitral Valve Prolapse I: Introduction01:27

Mitral Valve Prolapse I: Introduction

IntroductionThe mitral valve, one of the heart's four valves, regulates blood flow. These valves have flaps that open and close to direct blood properly through the heart and body. During each heartbeat, the flaps open for blood to pass through and seal shut to prevent backflow. Specifically, the mitral valve opens to allow blood flow from the heart's upper left chamber to the lower left chamber. It then closes securely as the lower left chamber contracts to pump blood to the body, preventing...
Mitral Valve Prolapse II: Assessment and Management01:22

Mitral Valve Prolapse II: Assessment and Management

IntroductionA range of clinical features characterizes Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP), but it is important to note that many individuals with MVP are asymptomatic and may remain so throughout their lives. For those who do exhibit symptoms, the following are the key clinical features:Palpitations: This is a common symptom where individuals feel an irregular or rapid heartbeat. Palpitations in MVP are often due to arrhythmias such as premature ventricular contractions or supraventricular tachycardia.
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction01:22

Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction

Mitral Valve Stenosis (MVS) is a heart condition where the mitral valve narrows, impeding blood circulation from the left atrium to the left ventricle. The etiology and pathophysiology of this condition are multifaceted, leading to a cascade of cardiovascular complications.Causes of Mitral Valve StenosisRheumatic Heart Disease: It is the main cause of mitral valve stenosis, particularly in developing nations. This condition arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory illness resulting from...
Mitral Valve Prolapse III: Nursing Management01:19

Mitral Valve Prolapse III: Nursing Management

The nursing management of Mitral Valve Prolapse, or MVP, centers around patient education, symptom monitoring, and lifestyle modifications.Patient Education on MVP Diagnosis and Heredity: Nurses should provide comprehensive education about MVP, a condition where the mitral valve does not close appropriately during heartbeats. This education often includes the condition's pathophysiology, symptoms, and potential complications, like arrhythmias or mitral regurgitation. Though not fully...