| Abstract: | Mechanical prosthetic valves have established their long-term durability, but the incidence of thromboembolism has been less satisfying. Therefore, the search for the perfect valve continues. The choice of replacing a cardiac valve with a prosthetic valve is based upon its hemodynamics, durability, thromboembolic and hemolytic characteristics. The hemodynamic assessment of the St. Jude Valve demonstrates that it performs well in the aortic, mitral, and tricuspid positions. The central bileaflet flow design leads to minimal gradients, even in the small valves which make it ideal for its use in children. The purpose of its all-pyrolite construction is to decrease the incidence of thromboembolism. Replacement of heart valves with the St. Jude Medical prosthesis was initiated in April, 1979. An analysis of all patients undergoing valve replacement between April 1, 1979, and June 1, 1984, was carried out to assess the durability, incidence of thrombosis, and thromboembolic as well as other complications. |
