A Repair-like Replacement for Unrepairable Mitral Valve

Abstract

Objective: We developed a novel stentless mitral valve (Normo Valve) in 2002. After confirming excellent hydrodynamic function of the valve using the pulsatile simulator and experimental animals and approval of ethical committee, we started this operation in 2011. Methods: This new type of mitral valve (MV) operation consists of the construction of a stentless mitral valve using an autologous pericardium and the implantation of the valve. We present our method of harvesting an autologous pericardium, making the stentless mitral valve and implanting the valve in surgical video. The procedure of the implantation consists of the fixation of the two legs of the valve to two papillary muscles and the continuous suturing of the valve to the mitral annulus. Results: Post operative echo Doppler examination shows the excellent performance of the valve like that of a successful MV repair. Conclusions: Although it could be an alternative to MV repair for patients with unrepairable MV, an ideal material which will take place of autologous pericardium is expected.