<p><b>Background:</b> Small aortic prosthesis can lead to prosthesis-patient mismatch (PPM). Implanting such small prosthesis remains a controversial issue. This study was done to investigate whether or not PPM causes an increased operative mortality in aortic valve replacement (AVR).</p><p><b>Methods:</b> Two-hundred-two consecutive patients undergoing primary AVR in a tertiary hospital were included. The sample was grouped according to the aortic valve prosthesis size: ?21 mm (small) and >21 mm (standard). The effect of variables on outcomes was determined by univariate and multivariable regression analyses.</p><p><b>Results:</b> PPM was found significantly more among patients with AVR ? 21mm (<i>P</i> < 0.0001). Moreover, the likelihood of mortality also was significantly higher in these patients (<i>P</i> < 0.0001). Univariate analysis demonstrated small prosthesis size, urgent operation, PPM, female gender, and NYHA Class IV as significant predictors of mortality. Multivariate regression identified female gender, PPM, and urgent operation as the key independent predictors of mortality.</p><p><b>Conclusion:</b> PPM and female gender are significant predictors of mortality. Care should be taken to prevent PPM by implanting larger prosthesis especially in females.</p>
