Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 24, 2026
06:26
Novel and Innovative Hybrid Technique for Type A Aortic Dissection
Published on: March 28, 2025
Uncommon acquired Gerbode defect following extensive bicuspid aortic valve endocarditis
Hélder Dores1, João Abecasis, Regina Ribeiras
1Laboratório de Ecocardiografia, Serviço de Cardiologia, Hospital de Santa Cruz-Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental, Rua Professor Reynaldo dos Santos, 2795-523 Carnaxide, Portugal. heldores@hotmail.com
Cardiovascular Ultrasound
|February 25, 2012
Summary
A rare Gerbode defect (left ventricle to right atrium shunt) occurred after complex endocarditis and valve replacement. Surgical repair was successful, with no complications during one-year follow-up.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Medical Case Reports
Background:
- Gerbode defect is a rare left ventricle to right atrium shunt, typically congenital but can be acquired.
- Acquired Gerbode defects are associated with infective endocarditis, valve surgery, trauma, and myocardial infarction.
Observation:
- A 50-year-old man presented with extensive infective endocarditis affecting the aortic and mitral valves.
- Following dual valve replacement and reconstruction, a Gerbode defect and severe mitral prosthesis leak were identified.
Findings:
- Successful reintervention was performed to close the Gerbode defect using an autologous pericardial patch.
- Paravalvular leak correction was also achieved during the same procedure.
Implications:
- This case highlights the possibility of acquired Gerbode defects post-cardiac surgery.
- Successful surgical management of complex Gerbode defects and paravalvular leaks is feasible.
- A favorable one-year follow-up suggests good long-term outcomes are achievable with timely intervention.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Endocarditis I: Introduction
Introduction:Endocarditis is the infection of the endocardium, the inner lining of the heart and its valves. When the heart muscle is involved, the condition is termed myocarditis, while an infection of the outer lining is called pericarditis. Infective endocarditis (IE) primarily affects the endocardium, where pathogens adhere to the valves or lining, forming vegetation that can lead to severe complications. Infective endocarditis occurs when microorganisms, usually bacteria from other body...
01:15Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction
IntroductionAortic regurgitation is characterized by the backward flow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole and arises from the improper closure of the aortic valve. This condition results in left ventricular volume overload and can stem from both acute and chronic etiologies, each contributing uniquely to the disease's progression and symptomatology.Acute and Chronic CausesAcute aortic regurgitation often results from events that suddenly impair the integrity of the...
01:22Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Aortic valve regurgitation (AR) occurs when the aortic valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward from the aorta into the left ventricle. This backflow can result in two distinct clinical presentations: acute and chronic AR, each characterized by its own set of symptoms and physical findings.Acute Aortic RegurgitationAcute AR presents with a sudden onset of severe symptoms. Patients typically experience profound dyspnea (shortness of breath), chest pain, and signs of left...
01:25Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis
Endocarditis can present various clinical features depending on the causative organism and the patient's underlying health conditions. Initially, the clinical features of infective endocarditis develop gradually, presenting with nonspecific symptoms that can be easily mistaken for other illnesses.General SymptomsEarly symptoms of infective endocarditis are fever, chills, weakness, malaise, fatigue, and weight loss. These symptoms reflect the systemic nature of the infection and the body's...
01:23Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
Rheumatic heart disease or RHD is a chronic condition that results from rheumatic fever, causing permanent damage to the heart valves.Etiology and Risk FactorsIt primarily arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory disease that can develop after untreated or inadequately treated group A streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis. Streptococcus spreads through direct contact with oral or respiratory secretions. While the bacteria are the causative agents, factors like malnutrition, overcrowding, poor...
01:22Mitral 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...