Examination of Operatively-Excised Bioprostheses in the Mitral Valve Position to Determine the Reason for Dysfunction

Abstract

Described herein are some clinical and morphologic findings in 23 patients who underwent operative replacement of a previously implanted bioprosthesis in the mitral valve position. Photographs of the operatively excised bioprostheses were provided in 15 (65%) of the 23 patients. A variety of causes were responsible for the bioprosthetic dysfunction. Twelve surgeons excised the dysfunctioning bioprostheses, an average of <2/surgeon, and a variety of techniques were employed to excise the bioprosthesis.