Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 3, 2026
12:12
Echocardiographic Approaches and Protocols for Comprehensive Phenotypic Characterization of Valvular Heart Disease in Mice
Published on: February 14, 2017
16.0K
Dysfunctioning mechanical mitral valve prosthesis: When thrombus over pannus makes hinders diagnosis
A I Barrio Alonso1, R Y López Suarez1, R Álvarez Cabo2
1Servicio de Radiodiagnóstico, Hospital Universitario de Cabueñes, Gijón, Asturias, Spain.
Radiologia
|February 16, 2024
Summary
Prosthetic valve obstruction, often caused by thrombus and pannus, is a dangerous complication. Rapid diagnosis is crucial due to high mortality rates, even with proper treatment.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Prosthetic valve obstruction is a rare but life-threatening complication.
- Thrombus and pannus formation are the primary causes, excluding infection.
- Accurate diagnosis can be challenging, especially when both thrombus and pannus coexist.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the critical nature of prosthetic valve obstruction.
- To emphasize the diagnostic challenges posed by coexisting thrombus and pannus.
- To underscore the importance of rapid diagnosis for improving patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on prosthetic valve obstruction.
- Analysis of diagnostic modalities, including cardiac CT scanning.
- Discussion of clinical presentation and etiological factors.
Main Results:
- Thrombus and pannus formation are the most common causes of obstruction.
- Cardiac CT scanning can be difficult for differentiating thrombus and pannus, with coexistence reported in 46%-85% of cases.
- Delayed diagnosis is associated with increased mortality.
Conclusions:
- Prosthetic valve obstruction requires prompt recognition and management.
- Diagnostic ambiguity between thrombus and pannus necessitates advanced imaging interpretation.
- Despite optimal treatment, the mortality associated with this condition remains high, stressing the need for early detection.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Mitral Valve Prolapse I: Introduction
1.1K
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...
1.1K
01:22Mitral Valve Prolapse II: Assessment and Management
1.4K
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...
1.4K
01:23Mitral Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
943
Mitral regurgitation (MR) is a valvular heart disorder in which the mitral valve fails to close tightly, allowing blood to leak backward into the heart. Understanding the clinical manifestations, assessment, diagnostic findings, and medical management of MR is crucial to effectively managing affected patients.Clinical Manifestations of Mitral RegurgitationMitral regurgitation can be acute or chronic, each presenting differently and requiring different approaches:1. Acute Mitral...
943
01:22Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
1.8K
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...
1.8K
01:23Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests
557
Mitral stenosis is a heart condition in which the mitral valve, which allows blood to flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle, becomes narrowed or stenotic. This narrowing hinders blood flow and leads to clinical symptoms requiring specific medical evaluations and management strategies. The following overview outlines the clinical symptoms, assessments, diagnostic findings, prevention methods, and treatments for mitral stenosis.Clinical ManifestationsDyspnea (shortness of breath): This...
557
01:26Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management
535
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...
535