Mitral valve replacement with dura mater bioprostheses

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Biomaterials Science
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Dura mater bioprostheses were introduced in Brazil and utilized in London starting 1975.
• These valves served as an alternative to fascia lata valves and inverted aortic homografts for mitral valve replacement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of dura mater bioprostheses in cardiac valve replacement.
• To analyze complication rates and survival outcomes associated with dura mater valve implantation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 120 patients who received dura mater mitral valves between 1975 and the study period.
• Inclusion of data on concomitant aortic valve replacements and detailed recording of complications and mortality.

Main Results:

• 120 dura mater mitral valves were implanted; 29 patients also had aortic valve replacements.
• Complications included perivalvular leaks (7) and detached cusps (7), with 13 reoperations.
• Emboli occurred in 4 patients. Hospital mortality was 12.5% (15 early deaths), and late mortality was 9.5% (10 late deaths).

Conclusions:

• Dura mater cardiac valves demonstrate a four-year postoperative survival of 78.9%.
• While effective, complications such as leaks, cusp detachment, and emboli require careful monitoring and management.