Endocarditis of Bovine Jugular Vein Conduits

Transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (TPVR) has been associated with an increased risk of infective endocarditis. However, there are few reports investigating the risk of endocarditis with the specific prostheses used in TPVR-the Melody valve and SAPIEN valve. Rarely, endocarditis of the pulmonary valve may also extend to adjacent tissue, resulting in the need for more complex surgical management. This article reviews current literature on infective endocarditis following TPVR and compares this to rates following surgical pulmonary valve replacement, with a particular focus on the Melody valve, SAPIEN valve, and Contegra conduit. We will also discuss our experiences with pulmonary valve endocarditis and several reported cases of its extension to the aortic valve and paravalvular area.