A Novel Template and Cylinder Bioprosthetic Atrioventricular Valve: An Ex Vivo Study

Ann Thorac Surg Short Rep. 2023 Sep 17;1(4):642-646. doi: 10.1016/j.atssr.2023.08.005. eCollection 2023 Dec.

Abstract

Purpose: This ex vivo study aimed to develop and evaluate a novel cylinder bioprosthetic valve for mitral and tricuspid valve replacements, addressing concerns related to valve size, anticoagulation, and postoperative morbidity.

Description: Existing bioprosthetic valves lack annulus-papillary muscle continuity. In contrast, our valve, which is crafted from autologous pericardium, maintains annulus-papillary muscle continuity, maximizes the orifice area when open, and closes in response to rising ventricular pressure, thus preserving mitral valve complexity. It also offers a comprehensive size range: implanted mitral valve diameters ranged from 13 to 26 mm, and implanted tricuspid valve diameters ranged from 15 to 28 mm.

Evaluation: Animal models demonstrated satisfactory coaptation lengths and excellent valve performance without regurgitation.

Conclusions: Our newly designed valve is a geometrically adaptable alternative to existing valves. Its autologous pericardium construction, open design position, and preservation of annulus-papillary muscle continuity address key limitations in existing implants. Moreover, with a broad size selection, this valve accommodates patients across all age groups. The innovative design and potential clinical benefits make this valve a breakthrough in atrioventricular valve replacement.