Transapical aortic valve implantation with a new self-expanding valved stent in canines: An observation of short-term outcomes / 第二军医大学学报

ABSTRACT

Objective: To discuss the feasibility of using the off-pump antegrade transventricular route for aortic valved stent implantation in canines, and to observe the short-term outcomes. Methods: Fresh porcine pericardium was treated with 0.6% glutaraldehyde solution for 36 h; then it was trimmed and sutured into a valvular ring and fixed on a new self-expanding dumbbell-shaped nickel-titanium shape-memory alloy stent. The valved stents were then implanted off-pump in 8 canines. A limited or full sternotomy approach was used to access the apex of the heart. The crimped valve was introduced through a sheath in the left ventricular apex under ultrasound guidance. The function of valved stents was evaluated with electrocardiogram, echocardiography, computed tomography and DSA angiography early and 3 months after the procedure. Results: We successfully prepared the valved aortic stent. Five canines survived after implantation of the aortic valved stents. Angiographic and echocardiographic observation confirmed that the location and function of the stent were satisfactory, without influencing coronary blood flow and mitral valve function. CT examination showed no migration of the stent 3 months after the procedure, and there were no other prominent complications. Conclusion: Our new self-expanding valved stent can be deployed over the native aortic valves via transapical route, and the short-term outcome is satisfactory.