Surgical treatment of aortic valvular disease in rheumatoid arthritis.

Two patients with severe rheumatoid arthritis and aortic regurgitation, developed progressive symptoms of left ventricular failure. Symptoms were inadequately controlled by medical therapy. Surgical treatment was at first considered with great reluctance because of the theoretical risk of operative and postoperative complications in patients with a diffuse disease of connective tissue. The suspected complications did not materialize. Valvular replacement should be considered in patients with severe valvular disease associated with rheumatoid arthritis.