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Abstract

The invention is concerned with a support prosthesis for a natural human heart valve having an annulus of generally oval configuration with a major axis and a minor axis and at least two leaflets stemming from the annulus and each moving along a naturally preordained path during systolic contraction or diastolic expansion. The support prosthesis according to the invention consists of an oblong, annular flexible member of a size and shape to fit against the annulus, the member having a longitudinal axis and being made of a biocompatible material exhibiting elasticity only along the longitudinal axis so as to permit dilatation of the annulus along the major axis thereof, in response to heamodynamic and functional changes, while preventing dilatation of said annulus along the minor axis thereof so that the path along which each said leaflet travels remains unaltered. Because of its pliable nature, the support prosthesis of the invention does not produce a systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve. The use of such a support prosthesis prevents dilatation of the annulus along its minor axis and thereby prevents nonclosure of the mitral and tricuspid valves during systolic contraction. During diastolic expansion, the annulus can dilate along its major axis in response to the increased blood flow and pressure in different physiological and pathological states.

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First Claim