Mechanical valve dysfunction in lumbar surgery: one case report

Mechanical valve dysfunction is a life-threatening complication in patients after mechanical valve replacement. Its risk will significantly increase when the patients have to undergo non-cardiac surgery again. In the current article, we reported a case in which a patient suffered from mechanical valve dysfunction after lumbar spine surgery under general anesthesia. Unfortunately, the patient died of heart failure at last. This article is to summarize the experience and drawbacks during preoperative preparations and anesthesia management so as to provide reference for clinical use. Key words: Mitral valve; Cardiac valve replacement; Mechanical valve dysfunction; Prone position; Lumbar surgery