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Valve replacement in the elderly: a long term appraisal
The Journal of Cardiovascular Surgery
|September 1, 1985
Summary
Elderly patients (70+) undergoing cardiac valve replacement surgery showed significant long-term survival and functional improvement. Porcine heterografts are a suitable choice for this patient group, challenging age as a surgical deterrent.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Geriatric Medicine
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Advanced age is often a contraindication for cardiac valve replacement.
- Limited data exists on long-term outcomes for elderly patients undergoing these procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of valve replacement surgery in patients aged 70 and older.
- To assess long-term survival and functional outcomes in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 362 valve replacement procedures in 360 consecutive patients (≥70 years) from 1972-1983.
- Analysis of hospital mortality, long-term survival, and postoperative functional status.
- Predominant use of porcine heterografts (86.5%).
Main Results:
- Overall hospital mortality was 13.8%.
- Six-year survival was 65% ± 3.8% for the entire group.
- Significant postoperative functional improvement observed, with 71.8% of survivors in New York Heart Association Class I.
Conclusions:
- Advanced age should not preclude patients from undergoing cardiac valve replacement.
- Porcine heterografts demonstrate favorable long-term outcomes in elderly patients.
- Cardiac valve surgery is a viable option for improving quality of life in geriatric populations.