Fracture embolization of an Edwards-Duromedics valve with asymmetrical closure

Asian Cardiovasc Thorac Ann. 2008 Jun;16(3):242-5. doi: 10.1177/021849230801600314.

Abstract

We report a case of sudden leaflet fracture of an Edwards-Duromedics mitral valve 17-years after its implantation. The patient had a history of an asymmetrical motion of the valve, five months earlier. A computed tomography scan showed two fragments that had embolized to the right brachiocephalic artery and left common iliac artery. An emergency mitral replacement surgery was successfully performed. Asymmetrical closure of the valve leaflet may have contributed to valve fracture.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Embolism / diagnosis*
  • Embolism / etiology*
  • Embolism / surgery
  • Heart Valve Diseases / therapy*
  • Heart Valve Prosthesis / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Mitral Valve*
  • Prosthesis Failure*