Use of autologous pericardium for mitral leaflet reconstruction in a child with endocarditis

Abstract

We present a case of successful repair of the mitral valve for active infective endocarditis. Mitral valve repair was performed through debridement of vegetation and abscess, resection and repair of the posterior mitral leaflet and posterior repair with autologous pericardium. Postoperative period was uneventfully, with no evidence of recurrent infection, and echocardiogram showed mitral valve competence with mild mitral regurgitation. We demonstrate that valve repair is a feasible choice in cases of active endocarditis in children.