Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography : official publication of the American Society of Echocardiography
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J Am Soc Echocardiogr · Oct 2015
ReviewEarly Bioprosthetic Valve Failure: Mechanistic Insights via Correlation between Echocardiographic and Operative Findings.
Bioprosthetic valves are increasingly implanted, with generally consistent and durable results. Early bioprosthetic valve failure is uncommon, and most clinicians are unfamiliar with the spectrum of early structural complications involving bioprostheses. In this review, the authors organize causes of early bioprosthetic valve failure according to possible pathogenesis, demonstrate the correlation between echocardiographic and anatomic findings, and discuss potential treatments. ⋯ Next, they discuss excessive pannus formation, a hitherto rarely described cause of early bioprosthetic valve failure. Finally, the authors address early structural valve deterioration mediated by calcification or primary tears. Illustrative examples with relevant echocardiographic and operative findings are provided.