endocarditis
Infection of the inner lining of heart chambers and valves, often requiring surgical intervention for valve replacement or repair.
Full Definition
Endocarditis is a serious infection involving the endocardium, most commonly affecting heart valves but potentially involving any endocardial surface. The condition can be acute or chronic, with bacterial causes being most common in surgical practice. Surgical intervention becomes necessary when medical therapy fails, or complications develop such as heart failure, systemic embolization, persistent bacteremia, or large vegetations. Surgical management may involve valve debridement, repair, or replacement, with careful consideration of prosthetic material choice and antibiotic prophylaxis protocols.
Usage
Usage note: Specify causative organism and affected valve when known in surgical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient required urgent valve replacement surgery for acute endocarditis with severe aortic regurgitation." — Surgical indication note
- "Blood cultures confirmed Staphylococcus aureus endocarditis affecting the mitral valve." — Infectious disease consultation