The Echo Doppler and Hematological Assessment of CarboMedics Prosthesis

—Comparison with Björk-Shiley Valve, Duromedics Valve, and St. Jude Medical Valve—

Abstract

We compared the hemodynamic performance of post mitral valor replacement among 4 mechanical valves. Recently, we use the CarboMedics prosthesis in mitral valve replacement. Between 1989-1990, 23 CarboMedics valves were implanted. Instead of this, we used Björk-Shilcy valves, St. Jade Medical valves, and Duromedics valves a short time ago. In evaluation of valve function, we measured peak flow velocity, pressure gradient, pressure half time, and mitral valve area by using Doppler echocardiography. Furthermore with regard to intravascular hemolysis, we evaluated the hematological effects after operation.
In conclusion,
1) The CarboMedics valve has a well hemodynamic function comparable to other 3 mechanical valves in an assessment from Doppler study. 2) With regard to hematological effects, lactate dehydrogenase, diret biliruhin, and indirect biliruhin are statistically lower in the CarboMedics valve than the Duromedics valve.