Successful implantation of autologous valved conduits with self-expanding stent (stent-biovalve) within the pulmonary artery in beagle dogs

ObjectivesTo evaluate the functionality of an autologous heart valve with stent (Stent-biovalve or SBV) after implantation in the pulmonic valve position in beagle dogs.AnimalsFive beagle dogs.MethodsA mold with an aperture of a tri-leaflet structure was constructed from a pair of concave and convex rods to which a nitinol (NiTi) stent was mounted. This mold was embedded in a dorsal subcutaneous pouch in beagle dogs for 4 weeks. At the time of the removal, the surfaces of the molds were completely covered with connective tissues, tri-leaflet valves were formed and the NiTi stent was tightly connected to the structure.ResultsThe mean burst strength of the SBV leaflet was 2710 mmHg (range 2280–3116 mmHg), which was approximately equal to that of the native pulmonic valve leaflet. After implantation in the pulmonary position, the SBV showed good functionality as a pulmonic valve. At 84 days after implantation, the SBV was replaced with autologous fibroblasts and collagenous tissues, and showed organization similar to that of native heart valves.ConclusionStent-Biovalves achieved good valvular function with laminar flow in the pulmonic valve position of beagle dogs.