Importance

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Abstract

A heart valve stiffening ring having a clasp with first and second radial ends interengageable complementary to each other from unlocked position into interlocked position relative to annular members the heart valve and fabric tube respectively cloth wrapped around the suture heart valve stiffening ring as well as a filler ring as an outer annular ring of material are fitted concentrically around the metal stiffening ring per se and collectively are surrounded by the fabric tube of cloth wrapped around the heart valve locking ring and a filler ring surrounding the heart valve radially inwardly thereof. The locking ring serves as a stiffening ring located radially intermediate the filler ring and heart valve locking ring surrounded by the fabric tube respectively cloth wrapped around the assembly of the suture ring collectively therewith. At least two suture lines fix the fabric tube in place. The assembled heart valve prosthesis is rotatable and provides for an orifice ring having a relatively large internal diameter. As a result, fewer and more easily manufactured components are required with more rapid assembly. Also, the suture ring is prevented from being inadvertently separated from the subassembly during implantation.

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First Claim