Long-term Survival after Aortic Valve Replacement with the Mitroflow Bioprosthesis: a Comparative Study

Background Recent case reports of early structural degeneration of the Mitroflow valve have cast doubts on the suitability of this bioprosthesis, particularly in the smaller sizes, and in younger patients. We studied long-term patient survival, in a comparative study, as a marker of success after aortic valve replacement. Methods Long-term survival in 142 consecutive patients implanted with the Mitroflow valve was compared, using the Kaplan-Meier method, with a control group of 149 patients receiving different bioprostheses. Ninety two percent of patients were over 70 and the Mitroflow was used preferentially in smaller sizes. Results Long-term survival in patients who received a Mitroflow valve was equivalent to controls. Four documented cases of premature structural valve degeneration (3 Mitroflow, 1 Perimount) required a second intervention. Conclusions The Mitroflow compared favourably with other valves in our practice. Although a few patients required further treatment this had no significant adverse impact on overall survival.