IMPLANTABLE PROSTHETIC VALVE

摘要

A method of replacing a deficient native aortic valve with a self-expandable prosthetic valve is disclosed. The method involves advancing a self-expandable prosthetic valve through a tapered tube for crimping the prosthetic valve into a crimped diameter. The prosthetic valve is then advanced into a restriction tube for maintaining the prosthetic valve in the crimped diameter. The prosthetic valve is then advanced into a body and is positioned within the deficient native aortic valve. The prosthetic valve is then released from the restriction tube such that the prosthetic valve self-expands to an expanded diameter for anchoring within the deficient native aortic valve. The prosthetic valve comprises an expandable tubular support frame and a valve assembly positioned within the support frame. The valve assembly is formed with pericardial tissue and has three leaflets for providing blockage to a reverse flow of blood.