Iatrogenic left ventricular--right atrial fistula following mitral valve replacement

Abstract
A case of an acquired left ventricular-right atrial fistula complicating Starr-Edwards replacement of a non-calcific mitral valve is reported. Emphasis is placed on the diagnostic methods and the anatomical relationship of the mitral valve to the atrioventricular septum. Surgical repair is advocated as soon as this complication of mitral valve replacement is discovered.