New cineradiographic methods for assessment of Bjork-Shiley valve integrity.

The Bjork-Shiley prosthesis has been used extensively for valvular replacement since 1969. Despite its widespread use, it is subject to complications that can be assessed with cineradiography. New methods are presented for assessment of incomplete closing and opening angles that occur with valvular malfunction. Alternative methods of cineradiographic measurement are compared with each other and with the new method. The new method is an appropriate alternative when the conventional double-profile method cannot be used and distributes the burden of performance and complexity between the technologist and radiologist. This new method is shown to be accurate to within 1 degree.