Detachable Shape‐Memory Sewing Ring for Heart Valves

Abstract

The novel sewing ring concept consists of a detachable ring snap connection between valve housing or stent and suture cuff. The suture cuff itself is a memory metal ring of nickel-titanium (NiTi) that is embedded within a textile fabric torus. After a special training program the ring can assume two geometric shapes when alternately cooled and heated. Due to this physical property, the sewing ring can be safely fixed within a groove of the housing or stent by changing between room and physiological temperature. This allows the surgeon first to implant the sewing ring followed by arbitrary positioning and final fixation of the valve by the shape-memory effect. Additional advantages are an increased stiffening of the valve base for minimizing potential leaflet dysfunction, and reduced time and risk of implantation, particularly when a reoperation is necessary.

Innovative, Replaceable Heart Valve: Concept, In Vitro Study, and Acute In Vivo Study

“…Jansen et al. (7) designed a detachable shape‐memory sewing ring for heart valves in 1992; however, in vivo studies have not been reported yet.…”

“…In 1988, Cooper et al (6) reported the initial experimental experience of their replaceable cardiac valve using a simple ring system, a "circlip," in 10 baboons.The current status of this valve is unknown, as there have been no reports after this single article. Jansen et al (7) designed a detachable shape-memory sewing ring for heart valves in 1992; however, in vivo studies have not been reported yet.…”