Recurrent Ischemic Strokes in a Patient with Medtronic-Hall Prosthetic Aortic Valve and Valve Strands

Abstract Fine strands associated with prosthetic heart valves have been demonstrated with transesophageal echocardiography, but the pathologic identity of these strands is unclear. A case of a man with a prosthetic aortic Medtronic-Hall valve with prominent valve strands and recurrent strokes is discussed. The patient underwent valve replacement surgery, and histopathologic examination of the strands identified them as Lambl's excrescences. (J Am Soc Echocardiogr 1998;11:755-7.)