Importance

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Abstract

Expandable, percutaneously deployable, prosthetic heart valves and systems for minimally invasive replacement of damaged or diseased native aortic valves comprise an expandable, tubular stent body and a unidirectional valve assembly. Embodiments of the stent body comprise an annulus anchoring section, a sinus section, and an outflow section, with the outflow section flared outward from the sinus section in an expanded configuration. Embodiments of the stent body are self-expanding, comprising, for example nitinol. The valve assembly disposed within the sinus section of the stent body and sutured thereto. Embodiments of the valve assembly comprise three leaflets, each leaflet comprising a curved outer edge sutured to the sinus section of the stent body, and a coapting free edge. Embodiments of the valve leaflets comprise pericardium. Embodiments of the prosthetic heart valve have a contracted configuration dimensioned for percutaneous delivery thereof.

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First Claim