Late results of valve replacement surgery. II. Complications of prosthetic heart valves

During the past 18 years of cardiac valve replacement, substantial advances have been achieved in the management of patients with valvular heart disease. At present, we have a reasonable assessment of the 5- to 10-year mortality and morbidity with cardiac valve replacement. Major questions remain, however, including the proper timing of cardiac valve replacement, the durability of currently used prostheses, and steps to be taken to diminish cardiac and prosthesis-related morbidity and mortality further. Nonetheless, the long-term results of heart valve replacement can be most gratifying.