Simplified correction of outflow obstruction after mitral valve replacement

Left ventricular outflow tract obstruction after mitral valve replacement may occur when a retained native anterior leaflet prolapses between prosthetic struts. Existing reports of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction by this mechanism lack emphasis on its surgical treatment. We obtained definitive relief of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction by transaortic exposure, division, and partial excision of the obstructing leaflet. This approach minimizes the complexity and potential morbidity of the correction.