Polymeric heart valves

Abstract Current technology for heart valve replacement, which is the second most common cardiac operation performed in the United States, is limited to mechanical and bioprosthetic valves that suffer from poor hemocompatibility and durability, respectively. Polymeric heart valves (PHVs) have promise as a potential solution, ideally providing a prosthetic valve replacement that is both as durable and long-lasting as a mechanical valve but does not require anticoagulation therapy. PHV prototypes have made significant improvements from their start in the 1950s, thanks to the advances in polymeric materials, surface modification technologies, and increasing knowledge of modes of failure. Equipped with these advances, the design and development of a novel PHV for clinical heart valve replacement is not far off. Here, we will discuss the design considerations and challenges that must be overcome before a clinically successful PHV becomes a reality.