Mitral valve replacement in a patient with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.

Reports of a cardiac operation in a patient with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura are scarce. Here we present a case of successful mitral valve replacement in a patient with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. Preoperative treatment with high-dosage gamma-globulin successfully increased the platelet count from 50,000/microliter to 80,000/microliter. Twenty units of platelet-rich plasma were administered during and after the operation. No other blood products were used. The postoperative convalescence was uneventful. Perioperative management for patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura undergoing open-heart surgery is discussed.