Early structural deterioration with the mitroflow pericardial xenograft in the mitral position.

Early structural deterioration with the mitral Mitroflow pericardial valve requiring reoperation occurred in 6 patients. Clinical diagnosis of prosthetic failure was made 5 to 58 months after valve implantation (mean, 38 months). Re-replacement was carried out 22 to 80 months (mean, 55 months) after the initial operation. Mode of failures were cuspal tear without calcification in three valves and massive calcifications in the remaining bioprostheses. High incidence of early structural deterioration of the Mitroflow pericardial valve makes this new prosthesis an unsatisfactory alternative as a substitute in the mitral position.