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Updated: May 28, 2026

Standardized Technique of Aortic Valve Re-implantation for Valve-sparing Aortic Root Replacement
Published on: December 11, 2017
[Pseudo-aneurysm of mitro-aortic continuity: a rare complication after aortic valve replacement]
G Malclès1, K Azarnoush, R Ravan
1Service de cardiologie, centre hospitalier de Vichy, boulevard Denière, France.
Abstract:
Pseudo-aneurysm of the fibrous continuity zone between the aortic and mitral valves, the so-called "mitral-aortic intervalvular fibrosa" is a rare complication of acute infective endocarditis, rarely after an aortic valve replacement. We report the case of a large pseudo-aneurysm occurred in a 70-year-old man, who had a history of surgical aortic valve replacement 3 years before. There were no biological or clinical evidence for infective acute endocarditis. The originality of this observation can be summarized in three points: the late onset after surgery, the absence of any infectious context and the chronic nature of pseudo-aneurysm, without any complication during a follow-up of 12 months. Transesophageal echocardiography remains the best diagnostic tool.
Insights
A rare mitral-aortic intervalvular fibrosa pseudo-aneurysm developed late after aortic valve replacement, without infection. Transesophageal echocardiography is key for diagnosing this chronic condition.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Mitral-aortic intervalvular fibrosa pseudo-aneurysms are rare, typically linked to infective endocarditis.
- They can also occur late after aortic valve replacement (AVR).
Observation:
- A 70-year-old male presented with a large pseudo-aneurysm at the mitral-aortic intervalvular fibrosa.
- The patient had undergone AVR 3 years prior.
- No clinical or biological signs of acute infective endocarditis were present.
Findings:
- The pseudo-aneurysm demonstrated late onset post-AVR.
- The condition was chronic and asymptomatic over a 12-month follow-up.
- Absence of an infectious context was notable.
Implications:
- This case highlights late-onset, non-infectious pseudo-aneurysms after AVR.
- Transesophageal echocardiography is confirmed as the optimal diagnostic modality.
- Understanding chronic pseudo-aneurysm development is crucial for patient management post-AVR.
Related Concept Videos
Aneurysm I: Introduction
Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care
Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Mitral Valve Prolapse I: Introduction

