These bioprosthetic leaflets are distorted by mineral deposits. They are from a valve that was explanted from an ovine at 150 days after implantation.

Mineral deposits appear as firm, brittle, white-yellowish deposits within the leaflet or at the leaflet surface at macroscopic examination. They are highly radio-opaque on high resolution X-ray examination (Faxitron®) of the excised cusps. Mineral depositions are one of the most common complications of bioprosthetic cardiac valve implantation and may lead to the necessity of replacement with a new valve.

Macroscopic view at trimming after fixation, scale bar: 0.5 cm.
Faxitron® imaging, scale bar: 0.5 cm.

Faxitron imaging is one example from the comprehensive suite of Pathology Services offered by IMMR’s in-house team of Board-certified Veterinary Pathologists.

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