Heterograft valve replacement experience

Survey of implantation of porcine heterograft valves in the Dunedin Cardiac Surgical Unit has been reviewed covering 140 patients and 166 valves with a follow-up ranging from 1-55 months. The low mortality, minimal complication rate and absence of long term anticoagulants in the post operative regime are emphasized. Discussion centres on the low rate of complications and the usefulness of this valve. As with all biological valves durability is still in question.