An ethical dilemma: Severe ischaemic mitral regurgitation and acute coronary syndrome in a 49-year-old pregnant woman

Abstract

We report the case of a 49-year-old woman who presented with symptomatic severe mitral regurgitation secondary to previous myocardial infarction. During the work-up for surgery, she was found to be pregnant. This report explores the difficulties and ethical dilemmas encountered dealing with the need for urgent valve surgery and coronary revascularization in association with an unplanned, but wanted pregnancy in an older woman. © The Author 2009.