Long-Term Durability of Bioprosthetic Aortic Valves: Implications From 12,569 Implants

Outcomes of stented bovine pericardial aortic valvular prostheses were evaluated over a 30 year experience.  48% had concomitant CABG and 26% had additional valve procedures at the time of implant.  Explants were required in 1.9% at 10 years and in 15% by 20 years.  Explant rates were 3-fold higher in patients younger than 60 years.  Patient-prosthesis mismatch and high gradients were associated with a higher risk of explant.