Mechanical failure of the Björk-Shiley valve. Updated follow-up and considerations on prophylactic rereplacement
Lindblom, D.; Rodriguez, L.; Björk, V.O.
Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery 97(1): 95-97
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0022-5223 PMID: 2911201 Document Number: 347390
The early production series of the 29 to 31 mm 70-degree convexo-concave (CC70) Bjork-Shiley heart valves constitutes a subgroup of CC70 valves with an extra high risk of outlet strut fracture. The hazard function for mechanical failure among these valves has remained almost constant over a 7-year follow-up period, and the 7-year actuarial incidence of mechanical failure among these values is 12.5%. Selected patients with these valves will be considered for prophylactic rereplacement.