Isolated replacement of the aortic valve with the Starr-Edwards prosthesis. A 9 year review.

A 9 year review of patients who underwent replacement of the aortic valve with the Starr-Edwards prosthesis indicates that the operative mortality rate for aortic valve replacement continues to decline. Thromboembolic complications have been markedly lessened in newer model valves. Surgical therapy is no longer seriously questioned as the appropriate management for symptomatic aortic valvular disease. The large majority of patients who survive surgery can expect to be rehabilitated to a highly functional existence, with longevity not unlike that of the general population. The Starr-Edwards prosthesis is a very satisfactory prosthesis for replacement of the aortic valve.