Aortic Valve Replacement in a Patient with Severe Nickel Allergy

Abstract

Nickel allergy can raise clinical problems in patients undergoing cardiac surgery who require sternal closure with stainless steel wire. We describe the case of a 51-year-old woman with severe nickel allergy who underwent aortic valve replacement with a nickel-free ON-X prosthesis and sternal closure by Fiberwire # 2 suture without complications. Considering its biocompatibility and its mechanical characteristics including optimal strength and knot resistance, this suture might be a viable alternative in patients in which the use of stainless steel wire is contraindicated.

Thrombotic complications associated with transcatheter aortic valve implantation: the role of Kounis hypersensitivity-associated thrombotic syndrome

“…It seems that the same thrombotic pathogenetic mechanism applies also to other devices such as coronary stents, pacemakers, defibrillators, artificial cardiac valves and closure devices for patent foramen ovale, atrial septal defects and for left atrial appendage [11]. In order to avoid such complications, nickel free artificial valves have been already developed for commercial use [12].…”