[Transprosthetic catheterization of a Björk-Shiley aortic prosthesis with fatal outcome].

Retrograde transprosthetic catheterization of a Björk-Shiley aortic prosthesis (type ABP) using a Sones catheter resulted in sticking of the tilting disc. Every attempt to withdraw the catheter failed and the patient died before he could be transferred for emergency reoperation. We advise against transprosthetic catheterization of tilting or bileaflet prostheses, which has been reported to be easily to perform without apparent risk. If left ventricular catheterization is mandatory after aortic valve replacement, the transseptal approach should be used. This is the only procedure which permits accurate evaluation of the functioning of the prosthesis or a concomitant mitral valve disease.