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Artifact Mimicking Mechanical Valve Dysfunction on Intraoperative Transesophageal Echocardiography Following Redo Mitral Valve Replacement

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is vital for assessing prosthetic valve function, but imaging artifacts can lead to misdiagnosis. We describe a case of a 54-year-old man who underwent redo mitral valve replacement with a mechanical prosthesis, in which intraoperative TEE suggested prosthetic leaflet immobility. This prompted surgical re-exploration, which revealed normal valve function. Despite resection of posterior leaflet remnants that may have caused leaflet immobility, the abnormal findings persisted on TEE but were ultimately shown to be artifacts on intraoperative fluoroscopy. This case highlights the potential for TEE artifacts to mimic mechanical valve dysfunction. Multimodal imaging is critical for accurate diagnosis and avoiding unnecessary re-intervention.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.102096

Authors: McAndrew Merlini, Keijiro Mitube, Suguru Tatsuki, Gentaku Hama, Ryuji Koushima

Language: English

Topic: Cardiac Valve Diseases and Treatments

Subfield: Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7125614549

FWCI:

Cites: 10

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