OBJECTIVE: Mitral regurgitation due to prolapse of the mitral leaflets frequently compromises annuloplasty repair procedures. We present a new annuloplasty ring that overcomes this difficulty, preventing displacement of the leaflets into the atrium. METHODS: The 'Valve Racket' is a prosthetic ring transformed into a racket by means of handmade mesh using expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE Gore-Tex). After transection of the marginal chordae tendineae, five sheep had the new racket implanted in the mitral (n = 3) and in the tricuspid position (n = 2). The surviving sheep underwent postoperative evaluation. RESULTS: After six months of operation, a standard transthoracic study showed competent valves without significant gradients and without residual valve regurgitation. The ring appeared encapsulated by a uniform fibrous tissue but the threads showed a completely denuded surface except in the zone proximal to the ring. Thrombi or calcification deposits in the ring, racket's mesh, or cardiac chamber were not observed. CONCLUSION: This initial experience confirmed the efficacy and simplicity of the technique.
OBJECTIVE:Mitral regurgitation due to prolapse of the mitral leaflets frequently compromises annuloplasty repair procedures. We present a new annuloplasty ring that overcomes this difficulty, preventing displacement of the leaflets into the atrium. METHODS: The 'Valve Racket' is a prosthetic ring transformed into a racket by means of handmade mesh using expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE Gore-Tex). After transection of the marginal chordae tendineae, five sheep had the new racket implanted in the mitral (n = 3) and in the tricuspid position (n = 2). The surviving sheep underwent postoperative evaluation. RESULTS: After six months of operation, a standard transthoracic study showed competent valves without significant gradients and without residual valve regurgitation. The ring appeared encapsulated by a uniform fibrous tissue but the threads showed a completely denuded surface except in the zone proximal to the ring. Thrombi or calcification deposits in the ring, racket's mesh, or cardiac chamber were not observed. CONCLUSION: This initial experience confirmed the efficacy and simplicity of the technique.