Mitral valve substitution, using the Lillehei-Kaster prosthesis
Morino, F.; Possati, F.; Calafiore, A.M.; Sasso, D.; Santarelli, P.; Viglione, G.C.; Liore, L.
Minerva Medica 70(6): 445-454
1979
ISSN/ISBN: 0026-4806 PMID: 431865 Document Number: 142001
Personal experience acquired in the course of 177 mitral valve replacements with a Lillehei-Kaster prosthesis up to June 1977 is discussed. Intraoperative mortality was 8.5%. Postoperative mortality (as at 31-12-1976) was 5.3%. The clinical, radiological, and ergometric findings were fully satisfactory. Haemodynamic examination at rest and during effort revealed improved pressure and heart capacity values. The mean transprosthetic gradient at rest was 5.61 and rose to 13.53 (after uncalibrated effort). Thromboembolism was noted in 5 patients (3.1%), as in the literature. The haemodynamic features and low thrombogenicity of the Lillehei-Kaster prosthesis would thus appear to make it a sound replacement for the mitral valve.