Plantaris tendon graft for atrioventricular valve repair: a novel hypothetical technique

Heart valve repair is a biomaterial-dependent procedure, yet autogenous tissue for valvular reconstruction has to date been obtained mostly from the pericardium and fascia lata. Most clinical studies recommend valve repair as an alternative to replacement. We now put forward a hypothesis, extrapolated from hand surgery, for use of the plantaris tendon in heart valve repair. This proposal, if implemented, would increase the supply of autogenous donor tissue for valve repair, thereby enhancing the surgeon's armamentarium. The report describes a novel technique that in our judgment warrants future clinical development.