Native Valve Endocarditis

Abstract

Infective endocarditis is defined by a focus of infection within the heart and is a complex, challenging and life-threatening condition that requires multidisciplinary management regarding diagnosis, medical therapy, monitoring and surgery. It is frequently acquired in the health care setting, and more than one-half of cases now occur in patients without known heart disease. Despite optimal care, mortality remains high. The challenges posed by infective endocarditis are significant. It is heterogeneous in etiology, clinical manifestations, and course. In this chapter, we will discuss the surgical aspects of native valve endocarditis.