Nonanatomical Mitral Valve Replacement in the Pulmonary Venous Confluence for Heavily Calcified Aortic or Mitral Annulus

Mitral valve replacement surgery after previous aortic valve surgery can be extremely challenging. The presence of heavy calcification and scarring in the aortic and/or mitral annulus can make suture placement nearly impossible. Although novel techniques have been described, even these alternatives might not be feasible. We present a case of nonanatomical mitral valve replacement in the pulmonary venous confluence as a salvage operation. This can provide adequate hemodynamics and survival until a subsequent care plan can be established. © 2011 Elsevier Inc.