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Development of an artificial heart valve.
1Karolinska Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Mechanical heart valves require lifelong anticoagulation therapy, increasing bleeding risks. A modified Björk-Shiley valve in goats demonstrated 5-year survival without anticoagulation, suggesting improved patient quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Medical Device Engineering
Background:
- Mechanical heart valves, including Björk-Shiley tilting disc valves, necessitate lifelong anticoagulation therapy.
- Anticoagulation therapy is associated with significant risks, including bleeding, which is a leading cause of death after aortic valve replacement.
- There is a critical need for heart valve alternatives that reduce or eliminate the need for anticoagulation, improving patient quality of life, particularly for vulnerable populations.