A Carpentier-Edwards porcine-valved dacron conduit: at twenty-five years

Int J Cardiol. 2007 Apr 12;117(1):e13-6. doi: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2006.07.063. Epub 2007 Jan 25.

Abstract

We report the longest duration of implantation of a porcine bioprosthesis in the English language literature--a Carpentier-Edwards valved conduit excised after twenty-five years. This 50-year-old man had undergone a modified Fontan operation for tricuspid atresia. He presented with progressive dyspnea, fatigue and edema. The bioprosthesis' dysfunction was due to the pathologic findings of pannus, significant thrombus (on the sinus surface of a cusp), mild structural valve deterioration and pseudo-intimal formation within the conduit. The bioprosthesis' longevity is likely related to low-pressure circulation in the right heart and to host tissue (pannus) overgrowth that covered the cusps and thereby reduced tissue degeneration.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Bioprosthesis*
  • Device Removal
  • Equipment Failure Analysis
  • Fontan Procedure
  • Heart Valve Prosthesis*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Time
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Tricuspid Atresia / surgery
  • Tricuspid Valve*