Valvular surgery was performed in 135 patients under the age of 15 years during the period between February 1975 and February 1986. They are devided in two groups: group I) plastic repair, 60 patients; group II) prosthetic surgery, 75 patients. In group I hospital mortality was 7%. Were lost to follow-up 34% of the survivors. Among the patients under control, 72% have no symptoms. 5% died and 22% have had another surgery for prosthesis placement. In group II hospital mortality was 12% and 20% of survivors were lost to follow-up. Of the remaining patients, 71 % have no, or few symptoms, 4% are symptomatic and not doing well; 13% have died and 23% have had a second operation. In conclusion, we think that every effort should be made to preserve native valves in this young group of patients.
heart valve; heart valve; heart valve, prosthesis