Transcatheter mitral valve repair using the Cardioband® system: Histopathological insights in device ingrowth and biocompatibility

Surgical implantation of a complete or incomplete ring to reduce the valve annulus and improve leaflet coaptation is the mainstay of mitral valve surgery. The Cardioband® system (Edwards Lifesciences) was designed to address the pathophysiological mechanism of annular dilatation through a catheter-based approach. We present the histopathological workup of a Cardioband® device, which had been implanted 21 months earlier in a 34-year-old male with ischemic cardiomyopathy. Device examination demonstrate a well-positioned and securely anchored device. The described tissue reactions may have an impact on choice of device and timing in case of re-do surgery.