Primary Article

Cardiac Valve Replacement in the First 21 Years of Life*

Authors: JOSEPH I. MILLER MD, JOSEPH M. CRAVER MD, ALAN SAMS PA, CHARLES R. HATCHER JR MD

Abstract

ABSTRACT: &NA; From 1969 through 1974, 25 patients under age 21 years had prosthetic cardiac valve replacement at the Emory University Hospital. Twenty‐nine valves were replaced in this group. Patients ranged in age from 2 to 21 years, with a mean of 14 years. Concomitant correction of associated cardiac lesions was required in 14 (56%). Five (21%) had had prior open valvuloplastic procedures. Operative mortality for the entire group was 12%, with an additional late mortality of 8%. There have been no early or late deaths in the last three years' experience. Best results are obtained when early correction of isolated valvular lesions is done as soon as clinical deterioration on vigorous medical management is recognized. The presence of multiple intracardiac lesions or prior valve surgery does not preclude excellent results. Current indications for surgical correction and follow‐up management are presented.

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References