Experience with the Mitroflow aortic bioprosthesis

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Biomaterials Science
• Clinical Outcomes Research

Background:

• The Mitroflow bovine pericardial valve is a common choice for aortic valve replacement.
• Understanding its long-term performance and durability is crucial for patient management.
• Previous studies have indicated potential limitations in the durability of bioprosthetic valves.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical performance and durability of the Mitroflow bovine pericardial valve in the aortic position.
• To assess hemodynamic function, survival rates, and complication incidence.
• To identify factors influencing valve durability and patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study of 168 patients who received the Mitroflow valve between October 1985 and May 1990.
• Follow-up data collected over 7.5 years, totaling 781 patient-years.
• Analysis included hemodynamic measurements, mortality, thromboembolic events, endocarditis, valve dysfunction, and reoperations.

Main Results:

• Favorable intraoperative peak-to-peak gradients were observed across different valve sizes.
• Hospital mortality was 7.3%, with late mortality at 20.1% primarily due to non-valve-related causes.
• Durability decline was noted after six years, with a potentially slower rate in patients aged 70 and older. Survival at 94 months was 64%.

Conclusions:

• The Mitroflow bovine pericardial valve demonstrates favorable hemodynamics for aortic valve replacement.
• Valve durability may decrease after six years, with outcomes potentially better in older patients.
• Long-term monitoring is essential to manage potential structural deterioration and associated complications.