Strut fracture and disc embolization in Björk-Shiley mitral valve prostheses: diagnosis and management

Mechanical failure of the Björk-Shiley tilting disc prosthesis is a rare but catastrophic complication of the valve. Several previously reported cases of major strut fracture with disc embolization led to improvements in the structure of the prosthesis. A case of minor strut fracture in the improved convexoconcave model of the Björk-Shiley mitral valve prosthesis is described. The literature on mechanical failures in the Björk-Shiley mitral valve prosthesis is reviewed, and recommendations for recognition and management of this problem are made.