The use of autologous pericardium for ventricular aneurysm closure

Closure of the ventriculotomy following ventricular aneurysm resection usually requires buttressing material to provide strength and hemostasis. Although Teflon felt has usually been used, this material is bulky, noncompliant, and prone to infection. Autologous pericardium appears to offer an ideal substitute without the disadvantages of artificial material. A simple technique is described to apply pericardial tissue as a natural buttressing agent for ventriculotomy closure.