Severe hemolytic anemia and acute renal failure after mitral valve repair associated with non-endothelialization of artificial chordae tendinae: case report

BACKGROUND: Mechanical hemolytic anemia and acute renal failure are rare complications of mitral valve repair. CASE PRESENTATION: We report a unique case of severe hemolytic anemia and severe acute renal failure after mitral valve repair using artificial chordae tendinae. Conservative therapy including plasmapheresis and blood transfusion was not effective. The major cause of the mechanical hemolysis was mild mitral regurgitation originating from the centre of the valve and striking the annuloplasty ring. The hemolytic anemia resolved gradually after the replacement of mitral valve. The new artificial chordae tendinae was found to be completely non-endothelialized in the surgery. Non-endothelialization of artificial chordae tendinae may also play a role in the genesis of mechanical anemia. CONCLUSIONS: The major cause of the mechanical hemolysis was mild mitral regurgitation originating from the centre of the valve and striking the annuloplasty ring. Non-endothelialization of foreign materials might be another mechanism of hemolysis after mitral repair.