Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 21, 2026

Standardized Technique of Aortic Valve Re-implantation for Valve-sparing Aortic Root Replacement
Published on: December 11, 2017
[Long-term results of mitral-aortic valve replacement in 1,154 patients with rheumatic valvular disease]
Bao-ren Zhang1, Liang-jian Zou, Zhi-yun Xu
1Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China.
Insights
This study on mitral-aortic valve replacement for rheumatic valvular disease shows improved survival and reduced complications. Optimal anticoagulant therapy and tricuspid valve repair are key for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Rheumatic Heart Disease
- Valvular Heart Disease
Context:
- Rheumatic valvular disease frequently impairs both left and right ventricular function.
- Combined mitral-aortic valve replacement is a critical intervention for severe rheumatic valvular disease.
- Patients often present with advanced New York Heart Association functional class (III/IV) and pulmonary hypertension.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the early and long-term outcomes of combined mitral-aortic valve replacement in rheumatic valvular disease.
- To identify determinant factors influencing outcomes.
- To assess subsequent therapeutic strategies.
Summary:
- A review of 1154 patients undergoing mitral-aortic valve replacement for rheumatic valvular disease between 1981 and 2001.
- Hospital mortality decreased, with 5-, 10-, and 15-year survival rates of 89.46%, 86.50%, and 67.86% respectively.
- High rates of freedom from thromboembolic events (97.80% at 5 years) and anticoagulant-related bleeding (94.80% at 5 years) were observed, with significant functional status improvement.
Impact:
- Highlights the importance of exploring the tricuspid valve during surgery and correcting significant lesions.
- Recommends long-acting penicillin for rheumatic fever relapse prevention.
- Suggests a low-intensity anticoagulant regimen (PT 1.5-2.0) to balance bleeding and thromboembolic risk.
Objective:
To analyze the early and long-term results after mitral-aortic valve replacement for rheumatic valvular disease and the determinant factors involved and subsequent therapies.
Methods:
1 154 patients receiving combined mitral-aortic valve replacement for rheumatic valvular disease from May 1981 to May 2001 were reviewed. The mean age of the patients was 41.48 +/- 10.00 years. Concomitant valve plasty was performed for associated tricuspid organic or significant functional lesions. Lateral tilting disc or bileaflet valve prostheses were used for replacement. New York Heart Association functional status showed Class III or IV in 91.77% of the patients. Moderate to severe pulmonary hypertension occurred in 29.38% of the patients. The duration of follow-up varied from 8 months to 20 years.
Results:
The hospital mortality was decreased from 6.50% to 4.45%. The 5-, 10- and l5-year survival rates were 89.46% +/- 1.35%, 86.50% +/- l.91% and 67.86% +/- 6.16%, respectively. The 5-, 10- and l5-year thromboembolic event free rates were 97.80% +/- 0.74%, 88.31% +/- 2.20% and 94.08% +/- 2.29%, respectively. the 5-, 10- and l5-year anticoagulant related bleeding free rates were 94.80% +/- 1.09%, 89.32% +/- 2.10% and 83.12% +/- 3.57% respectively. Cardiac functional status returned to Class II in 98% patients and to Class III in 2% during follow-up.
Conclusions:
Both left and right ventricular functions may be impaired as a result of rheumatic valvular disease. Tricuspid valve should be explored during surgery and any significant tricuspid annular enlargement and regurgitation showed be corrected in concomitance. Long-acting penicillin regimen is needed for 3 - 5 years for the prevention of rheumatic fever relapse. A low intensity anticoagulant regimen after valve replacement with prothrombin time targeting at 1.5 - 2.0 times is advisable in lessening anticoagulant related bleeding yet optimizing sufficient prevention against thromboembolic complications.
Related Concept Videos
Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Mitral Regurgitation III: Medical Management
Mitral Stenosis IV: Nursing Management
Mitral Regurgitation I: Introduction
Mitral Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests

