VALVED PROSTHESES WITH REINFORCED POLYMER LEAFLETS

摘要

A valve prosthesis includes a plurality of commissures and improved reinforced polymer leaflets extending between the commissures. The leaflets are formed from a polymer and have a reinforced free edge. The reinforced free edge can include a reinforcing member. In some embodiments, the leaflets have a reinforced free edge and a substantially uniform composition and thickness over the remaining body of the leaflet. In preferred embodiments, the reinforced edge of the leaflet preferably has a flexural rigidity no more than a factor of three greater than the unreinforced portion of the leaflet. In some embodiments, a reinforcing polymer layer supplies increased strength to the leaflet.