Methods For Development Of Hybrid Tissue Engineered Valve With Polyurethane Core

A hybrid tissue engineered heart valve leaflet including a polyurethane core, such as a polycarbonate-based thermoplastic polyurethane like carbothane. The polyurethane core is enclosed within one or more layer of a patient's cells and collagen. Also disclosed are hybrid tissue engineered heart valves, including a frame; and at least two leaflets attached thereto in a configuration of a heart valve, wherein the leaflets are hybrid tissue engineered heart valve leaflets, and methods of making a hybrid tissue engineered heart valve for deployment in a patient.

Currently there are two basic types of heart valves (mechanical and bioprosthetic valves). A mechanical heart valve is made from materials that do not include any form of biological tissue. However, patients using mechanical valves need anticoagulation therapy. The current tissue bioprosthetic heart valves have lower durability, functionality and more calcification in short time for patients. Thus, each type of valve has its own disadvantages. It is vital to design and build a novel tissue valve to overcome the above issues.