Repair versus replacement for ischemic mitral regurgitation

Ischemic mitral regurgitation (MR) following myocardial infarction is common and presages a doubling in mortality for those with at least mild regurgitation.  The disorder reflects disease of the myocardium, rather than an abnormality of the valve itself. Surgical practice guidelines support intervention for severe symptomatic ischemic MR, but evidence is lacking to inform whether valvular […]

Read More…

Dabigatran Unsuitable for Use with Mechanical Heart Valves

Dabigatran and other novel oral anticoagulants are effective and safe for reducing thromboembolic risk in the setting non-valvular AF.  However, it remains unclear whether these newer anticoagulants are as effective as warfarin for reducing thromboembolic complications among patients with mechanical heart valves.  As oral anticoagulation is a mainstay of therapy in patients with mechanical valves, […]

Read More…