VALVULAR SURGERY

The collection of clinical cardiac surgical articles published in the last year about valvular heart disease emphasizes the continuing accrual of data that compare prosthetic and bioprosthetic valves and suggest advantages and disadvantages of both: the indications for and long-term results of aortic valve replacement, particularly in patients with left ventricular dysfunction; newer elements of mitral valve reconstruction; and debate about the best operation for the tricuspid valve. A miscellaneous collection of interesting articles discusses endocarditis and anticoagulation in the pregnant patient who undergoes heart surgery.