Severe fibrous epicarditis after microporous polyurethane (Mitrathane) cardiac patch implantation

Several materials have been used for pericardial closure after open heart surgery. Mitrathane is a recently introduced material designed for use in the cardiovascular system. A case of severe epicarditis after implantation of a Mitrathane cardiac patch for pericardial closure is presented. This epicardial reaction rendered the exposure of the heart at reoperation extremely difficult. This is a complication not reported to date with this new material. Thus, careful evaluation of Mitrathane is needed before extending its use to larger series.