Transient cerebral ischemic attacks associated with worn porcine heterograft prosthesis. Case report

Details are reviewed of a case of transient cerebral ischemic attacks which probably resulted from thromboembolism from a Hancock porcine heterograft prosthesis. Cause of the embolism probably was thrombus formation on the worn cloth covering of the supporting valve stent. Technical and antomic factors which assure precise seating of the prosthesis in the mitral anulus without contacting the ventricular wall appear to be important in preventing this complication.