Prosthetic heart valves: A review

S INCE THE FIRST implantation of an artifically devised valve in the human circulatory system by Hufnagel’ in 1953, the variety of prosthetic devices available for use by the cardiovascular surgeon has expanded substantially. Technologic improvement has resulted not only in the development of new prostheses, but also in serial revisions in design and construction of those already in use. This review will examine the development and differential advantages of substitute cardiac valves presently available, as well as offer some perspective on those devices no longer commonly used.