OBJECTIVETo analyze the early and long-term results after mitral-aortic valve replacement for rheumatic valvular disease and the determinant factors involved and subsequent therapies.

METHODS1 154 patients receiving combined mitral-aortic valve replacement for rheumatic valvular disease from May 1981 to May 2001 were reviewed. The mean age of the patients was 41.48 +/- 10.00 years. Concomitant valve plasty was performed for associated tricuspid organic or significant functional lesions. Lateral tilting disc or bileaflet valve prostheses were used for replacement. New York Heart Association functional status showed Class III or IV in 91.77% of the patients. Moderate to severe pulmonary hypertension occurred in 29.38% of the patients. The duration of follow-up varied from 8 months to 20 years.

RESULTSThe hospital mortality was decreased from 6.50% to 4.45%. The 5-, 10- and l5-year survival rates were 89.46% +/- 1.35%, 86.50% +/- l.91% and 67.86% +/- 6.16%, respectively. The 5-, 10- and l5-year thromboembolic event free rates were 97.80% +/- 0.74%, 88.31% +/- 2.20% and 94.08% +/- 2.29%, respectively. the 5-, 10- and l5-year anticoagulant related bleeding free rates were 94.80% +/- 1.09%, 89.32% +/- 2.10% and 83.12% +/- 3.57% respectively. Cardiac functional status returned to Class II in 98% patients and to Class III in 2% during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONSBoth left and right ventricular functions may be impaired as a result of rheumatic valvular disease. Tricuspid valve should be explored during surgery and any significant tricuspid annular enlargement and regurgitation showed be corrected in concomitance. Long-acting penicillin regimen is needed for 3 - 5 years for the prevention of rheumatic fever relapse. A low intensity anticoagulant regimen after valve replacement with prothrombin time targeting at 1.5 - 2.0 times is advisable in lessening anticoagulant related bleeding yet optimizing sufficient prevention against thromboembolic complications.