Improved Mechanical Heart Valve Facilitates Implantation

The ATS valve has improved hemodynamic performance, enhanced thromboresistance, a quieter valve operation, and a cuff material and design that contribute to the ease with which suturing needles pass through the cuff. The heart valve utilizes a unique pivot design resulting in excellent performance and low risk profile.

Among the features of the ATS mechanical heart valve are the absence of recesses or cavities in the pivot area where thrombus can form; continuous passive washing which provides for gentle treatment of red blood cells, and low levels of hemolysis and thromboembolic events; a unique axis of suspension that results in leaflet movement responsive to physiological demands and improved hemodynamic performance; a solid pyrolytic carbon orifice and strengthening band for a thin yet strong orifice allowing large geometric orifice areas (GOAs); a single plane orifice that facilitates valve seating and implant regardless of suture technique; and a soft, pliable sewing ring of double-velour polyester that facilitates optimal valve positioning and suturing to the annulus.

The ATS Open Pivot AP360 mechanical heart valve is a product of ATS Medical (Minneapolis, MA, USA), and has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

"Heart valve sewing surgeons develop a feel for, and gain confidence and comfort in a cuff that is well suited to their individual surgical techniques,” said Michael Dale, President and CEO of ATS Medical. "The AP360 will allow us to re-approach those who have been intrigued by the ATS Open Pivot heart valve story but have desired a cuff more compatible with their preferences.”


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