A temporary catheter-tip aortic valve: hemodynamic effects on experimental acute aortic insufficiency

A catheter-mounted polyurethane cusp was designed to act as a temporary prosthetic aortic valve in the ascending aorta. Acute aortic insufficiency was created in 15 dogs by transventricular tearing of the two aortic valve leaflets with a wire hook. Hemodynamic variables were measured during aortic insufficiency and with the prosthetic valve in place. Comparison of the values showed that the prosthesis functioned as a competent aortic valve. Aortic diastolic pressure increased by 62 +/- 42%, pulse pressure was lowered by 44 +/- 9%, and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure decreased by 45 +/- 18%. Neither cardiac output, coronary blood flow, nor peak systolic pressure was significantly altered. The observed hemodynamic improvement and the simplicity of the design and application suggest that the prosthetic aortic valve may be applicable in the temporary treatment of decompensated aortic insufficiency.