Thrombosis of Björk-Shiley aortic valve prosthesis: report of three cases.

Thrombotic malfunction of a Björk-Shiley aortic valve prosthesis occurred in three patients 6 to 16 months postoperatively. None of the patients had been taking anticoagulants. Although the presentation was acute, prodromal symptoms could be identified retrospectively in two of the patients. Two patients survived thrombectomy. Postoperative anticoagulant therapy is recommended in patients with these prostheses despite factors that may make such therapy riskier in specific patients. Attention to the character of murmurs and of the closure sound of the prosthetic valve must be part of the routine follow-up. In the emergency situation, when delay must be avoided, catheterization and angiography are unnecessary. The operative approach consists of complete thrombectomy without replacement of the valve or any of its components unless there is obvious periprosthetic leak or prosthetic wear.