Impaction of the Ventricular Septum by Porcine Mitral Valves

Abstract

Impaction of the ventricular septum by a porcine mitral valve was noted by echocardiography in three asymptomatic and one symptomatic patient. When compared to 42 patients without septal impaction, no single echocardiographic feature predicted impaction. The detection of impaction in asymptomatic patients was more common than expected and does not imply valve dysfunction. Close follow‐up is indicated for potential prosthesis or myocardial complications.