[Management of the prosthetic heart valve patient in clinical practice]

Rev Prat. 2009 Feb 20;59(2):201-6.
[Article in French]

Abstract

In use since 1961, valvular prostheses allow the correction of the severe valvular diseases when conservatrice procedures are not possible. Current prostheses have outstanding haemodynamic features. Mechanical prostheses have a supposedly unlimited life span but require anticoagulant treatment. Bioprostheses do not need such treatment but end up to deteriorate and need reoperation. Both can be affected by valve-related complications (thromboembolic events, endocarditis, deterioration, desinsertion...): an ideal prosthesis does not exist yet. All patients with valvular prosthesis require close follow-up, where echocardiography holds preeminent place.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use
  • Bioprosthesis
  • Endocarditis, Bacterial / prevention & control
  • Heart Valve Prosthesis*
  • Humans
  • Postoperative Complications / prevention & control*
  • Prosthesis-Related Infections / prevention & control
  • Venous Thromboembolism / prevention & control

Substances

  • Anticoagulants