Hybrid tissue-engineered valves may expand options for heart valve surgery patients
Tuesday, June 2, 2015 - 09:00
in Health & Medicine
A new heart valve has been developed that combines a patient’s own cells with metal alloy for a more durable replacement with potentially fewer complications. Current valve replacement options are limited to those made solely from manufactured products (mechanical valves) or animal tissue (bioprosthetic valves). Mechanical heart valves tend to last longer than bioprosthetic valves, but they carry a greater long-term risk for blood clots that may lead to stroke and arterial thrombosis.