Medical problems in mitral and multiple valve replacement

Summary The medical problems encountered during the care of patients undergoing mitral and multiple valve replacement have been discussed. Included are remarks regarding particular problems which have been encountered at the University of Oregon Medical School, and the philosophy which has evolved here regarding the care of these patients. The discussion includes some aspects of the preoperative evaluation, preoperative medical care, and the role of internist during surgery. Postopertive medical management is considered at length, with special reference to complications.