Intracardiac surgery in pregnant women

A survey of members of The Society of Thoracic Surgeons was undertaken to obtain information on experiences with cardiac operations in pregnant women. The experiences reported were highly successful, with only 1 maternal death in 68 procedures utilizing cardiopulmonary bypass and more than 80% survival of fetuses. Cardiac operations in pregnant patients probably can be made safer by avoidance of perfusion hypothermia and by use of fetal heart and uterine monitoring. When valve replacement is necessary, use of biological valves is recommended to avoid the necessity for anticoagulation.