Embolization of disc occluder of a Wada-Cutter mitral prosthesis with survival

The second recorded survivor following emergency prosthesis replacement after embolization of the Teflon disc occluder of a Wada-Cutter mitral valve is reported. Difficulties encountered while attempting to locate the missing occluder are presented and a useful operative technique for aortic control is described. A plea is made for incorporation of a radiopaque material during manufacture of all future valve poppets.