Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Protocol for Relative Hydrodynamic Assessment of Tri-leaflet Polymer Valves
Published on: October 17, 2013
Beware of the B(e)all valve: mistaken valve identity, 30-year survival, and valve replacement
On Topaz1, Molly S Rutherford, Shannon Mackey-Bojack
1Division of Cardiology, McGuire Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia 23249, USA. On.Topaz@va.gov
Abstract:
Effective management of patients after the implantation of mechanical cardiac valves includes correct recognition of each valve and its related complications. Herein, we present the case of a patient who had undergone implantation of a floating-disc Beall-Surgitool mitral valve in 1976 and developed multiple valve-related complications. Over 30 years and in multiple medical centers, the device was mistakenly assumed to be a "ball" valve. The correct identification of the prosthesis led to the recognition of valvular failure, and the patient underwent its replacement with an On-X bileaflet carbon valve. Pathologic and microscopic examination of the explanted Beall valve showed massive pannus formation that extended over the sewing cuff on the atrial and ventricular side, preventing complete disc closure; disrupted fabric coating of the sewing ring, with exposure of the underlying metal; and a marked inflammatory reaction. We report one of the longest intervals on record between the implantation and replacement of a Beall-Surgitool valve.
Related Concept Videos
Mitral Valve Prolapse III: Nursing Management
Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Heart Valves
The AV valves prevent the backflow of blood from the ventricles to the atria during ventricular contraction. These valves function with the assistance of the chordae tendineae and papillary muscles. When the ventricles are relaxed, the chordae tendineae are slack, allowing blood to flow from the atria into the...
Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction
Mitral Valve Prolapse II: Assessment and Management
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
