Strut fracture in De Bakey valve. Successful reoperation and valve replacement.
Strut fracture in a De Bakey aortic valve is reported. The theoretical disadvantage of a Pyrolite carbon--coated ball and titanium struts is mentioned. Periodic cinefluoroscopy is recommended in all patients with a De Bakey aortic valve to avoid the complications associated with strut wear or fracture.
D000328:Adult; D001021:Aortic Valve / Q000601:surgery*; D005471:Fluoroscopy; D006350:Heart Valve Prosthesis / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000295:instrumentation; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male