Sutureless Artificial Heart Valves

Abstract

Valvular prostheses which incorporate an original method of mechanical fixation never previously described have been developed and successfully used in the aortic and mitral positions. Their principal advantage is a rapid, non suture method of permanent fixation which requires but a few seconds, thereby eliminating the need for prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass, myocardial perfusion, and hypothermia. The risk of subsequent thrombus formation has been reduced by the elimination of sutures and cloth cuffs ordinarily used for fixation to the tissues.