Mechanical vs. biological valve prostheses-Long-term evaluation of Hancock bioprostheses and “in vivo” assessment of Ionescu-Shiley bioprostheses and St. Jude Medical valve prostheses

Abstract

219 patients undergoing valve replacement with Hancock bioprostheses were evaluated. Cumulative follow-up was 877 patient-years (mean 4.3 years). Late mortality was 2.2%/P-Y. The incidence of thromboembolism was 2.5%/P-Y. Primary tissue failure occurred in 4 patients (0.5%/P-Y), but not in the patients older than 45 years old. The valve function of I-S and SJM valve prostheses were analysed with computer during the operation. During tachycardia the mean pressure gradient decreased at the aortic position but increased at the mitral position despite decreasing cardiac output.