Use of intraaortic balloon pump in left ventricle rupture after mitral valve replacement.

Over 6 years of a single surgeon experience, 3 patients had left ventricle rupture following mitral valve replacement, despite preserving the posterior leaflet. The valve was re-replaced on bypass in all patients. Intraaortic balloon pump was inserted electively before coming off bypass. There were no intraoperative deaths, reexploration, or excessive bleeding. An intraaortic balloon pump is an ideal adjuvant to left ventricle repair for ruptured ventricle following mitral valve replacement on cardiopulmonary bypass.