Rapidly Implantable Heart Valve

The goal of this research project is the investigation of a new surgical implantation method for fastening heart valves to the vessel wall. This fundamental research is supposed to show the feasibility of a sutureless artificial heart valve, especially for the replacement of the aortic valve. An animal experiment should demonstrate the suitability of the proposed sutureless implantation of heart valves. The results will form the basis for the future conversion into a clinically useable product.

The problems associated with the implantation of previous artificial heart valves could be solved by a new concept. After the removal of the diseased heart valve, the cardiac surgeon implants a folded ring which is inserted into the aortic root with a tool and is then unfolded to its maximum diameter. As a result, the valve ring presses against the vessel wall in such a way that a fixation is achieved. Afterwards, the actual heart valve can be inserted. The valve ring has a seal which prevents paravalvular leaks.

Implantation process

Contact persons

Dr. Eng. Ulrich Kertzscher
Dipl.-Ing. Johannes Großhauser