Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 11, 2026

A Simplified Model for Heterotopic Heart Valve Transplantation in Rodents
06:33

A Simplified Model for Heterotopic Heart Valve Transplantation in Rodents

Published on: September 21, 2021

Mechanical aortic and mitral valve replacement in infants and children

J S Sachweh1, A R Tiete, E G Mühler

  • 1Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Pediatric Cardiac Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany. jsachweh@ukaachen.de

The Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeon
|April 6, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Mechanical heart valve replacement in children shows acceptable long-term outcomes. While mitral valve replacement had higher perioperative risks, overall survival and freedom from adverse events were good, with safe anticoagulation self-management.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Cardiac Surgery
  • Biomaterials in Medicine

Background:

  • Evaluating early and late outcomes of mechanical systemic heart valve replacement in pediatric patients.
  • Assessing the efficacy and safety of St. Jude Medical valves in children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the long-term results of mechanical heart valve replacement in pediatric patients.
  • To analyze perioperative and late complications, survival rates, and reoperation rates.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective study of 32 children undergoing mechanical mitral, aortic, or double valve replacement between 1981 and 2003.
  • Utilized St. Jude Medical valves; 69% had prior cardiac surgery.
  • Anticoagulation self-management implemented since 1995.

Main Results:

  • Operative mortality was 3.1%; perioperative complications (heart block, ventricular fibrillation, myocardial infarction) were linked to mitral valve replacement.
  • 10-year actuarial survival was 93.8%. Late complications included endocarditis and stroke.
  • 9 patients required reoperations; 10-year freedom from reoperation was 80.9%. Anticoagulation self-management showed 89.1% freedom from related adverse events over 10 years.

Conclusions:

  • Mechanical valve prostheses are a viable option for pediatric left-sided heart valve replacement.
  • Mitral valve replacement was associated with higher perioperative morbidity.
  • Acceptable operative mortality and long-term morbidity, with safe and well-accepted anticoagulation self-management.
Abstract

More Related Videos

A Rodent Model of The Ross Operation: Syngeneic Pulmonary Artery Graft Implantation in A Systemic Position11:20

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

Published on: April 1, 2022

Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Replacement from Autologous Pericardium with a Self-Expandable Nitinol Stent in an Adult Sheep Model05:31

Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Replacement from Autologous Pericardium with a Self-Expandable Nitinol Stent in an Adult Sheep Model

Published on: June 8, 2022

Related Concept Videos

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 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 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 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...
Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management01:25

Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management

Aortic regurgitation (AR) is when the aortic valve does not close or seal properly, leading to backward blood circulation from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole. Common causes of AR include rheumatic heart disease, congenital valve defects, and aortic root dilation. Managing AR requires a multifaceted approach to alleviate symptoms, preserve left ventricular function, and address the underlying cause of the regurgitation. Patients with symptomatic AR or significant left...