Percutaneous implantation of a valve in the descending aorta in lambs

Aims: We assessed the feasibility of percutaneous implantation of a valve in the descending aorta and its function in systemic pressures.

Methods and results: A biological valve harvested from a bovine jugular vein was sutured into a stent. After the creation of aortic insufficiency, the valved stent was percutaneously implanted into eight lambs divided into two groups depending on the severity of the insufficiency created. Haemodynamic and angiographic evaluations were carried out. Anatomical evaluation was finally performed. Aortic insufficiency was created: four lambs had mild insufficiency and four massive insufficiency. A valve was successfully implanted in all and were functioning perfectly in the early follow-up. Despite this competence, animals with massive insufficiency died within 24 h following implantation. None of the animals with mild insufficiency died. The valve was functioning perfectly in the first 2 months following the implantation, but became incompetent after spontaneous healing of the wound of the aortic valve.

Conclusion: Percutaneously implanted valves in the descending aorta of lambs with aortic insufficiency function well in the early follow-up. This technique might become an interesting alternative to the standard approach in patients in whom perioperative risk is high.