Mitral Annular Calcification: A New Technique for Valve Replacement

Abstract

Many dangers attend mitral valve replacement in the presence of dense posterior annular calcification. The procedure described has been successful in 4 patients. The major elements of this procedure include complete ultrasonic debridement of the calcification, reconstitution of the disassembled atrioventricular groove, and retention of the mitral valve leaflets. © 1989, The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. All rights reserved.