Premature prosthetic mitral valve closure due to malfunctioning aortic prosthesis during intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation.

The echocardiographic demonstration of early prosthetic mitral valve closure (EPMVC) has never been previously reported. Its pathophysiologic basis as well as the clinical and therapeutic implications seem identical to those of premature closure of the normal MV. Additionally, the demonstration of EPMVC during intra-aortic balloon pump therapy, whether the finding is intermittent or continuous, is an indication for prompt cessation of counter-pulsation, to be followed by cardiac catheterization or more appropriately, by surgical re-exploration. Echocardiography is useful to monitor this potential complication.