Abstract
We experienced a case of extensively calcified mitral annulus and severe mitral regurgitation. A 75-year-old woman underwent successful debridement of an annular calcification with a CUSA® and replacement of mitral valve with a MIRATM valve in a supra-annular position. Use of CUSA® allowed safe removal of the calcification and prevented the tearing of the A-V groove vessels. In our technique, calcification is left to a certain extent to keep annular strength. Also the MIRATM valve has soft and rich sewing cuff, which enhances coaptation in highly calcified annuli and accommodates even fragile tissue. This makes it possible to implant valves even in severely diseased annulus conditions.
