Strategies for a schizophrenic patient who required aortic valve replacement.

An aortic valve was replaced in a schizophrenic patient with violent behaviour. The usual protocol was altered and strategies to prevent accidents before and after surgery were devised. Minimally invasive surgery, administering sedation during the critical recovery period, and therapeutic use of communication as a psychological intervention were effective strategies. The patient recovered well and was discharged on day 14 after surgery.