A biodegradable ring enables growth of the native tricuspid annulus.

Abstract

The implantation of a biodegradable ring does not restrict growth of the native TV annulus; this enabled its stabilization in proportion to the somatic growth in the majority of the children. The TV annulus began to change its dimension at six months postoperatively, which may coincide with its biodegradation. The rate of growth of the TV annulus differed from that in the normal population, and was proportional to the patient age. The increase in TV annulus diameter over time did not have any negative influence on the function of the repaired valve.