Abstract: A method for making an inferior ventricular patch includes the steps of providing a piece of sheet material having a central area and a circumferential area surrounding the central area, the sheet material made of at least one of pericardium, dacron, fascia, and a mammalium tissue; providing a ring with a vacant center, the ring made of at least one of plastic material, fascia, pericardium, and an autogenous tissue; and attaching the ring directly to the sheet material whereby the ring includes a triangular shape and defines a triangular central area of the sheet material inwardly of the ring and the circumferential area of the sheet material outwardly of the ring, and the ring extends continuously between the triangular central area of the sheet material and the circumferential area of the sheet material.

Abstract: The symptoms of congenital heart failure are addressed in this surgical procedure for mounting a patch in the ventricle of the heart to reduce ventricular volume. Placement of the patch is facilitated by palpating a beating heart to identify akinetic, although normal appearing, tissue. The patch has an oval configuration facilitating return of the heart to a normal apical shape which enhances muscle fiber efficiency and a normal writhing pumping action. The patch includes a semi-rigid ring, and a circumferential rim to address bleeding. Patch placement is further enhanced by creating a Fontan neck and use of pledged sutures. Intraoperative vascularization and valve replacement is easily accommodated. Increased injection fraction, reduced muscle stress, improved myocardial protection, and ease of accurate patch placement are all achieved with this procedure.

Abstract: A ventricular patch to restore the ventricular architecture of the heart includes a sheet of biocompatible material having a generally oval configuration, and a continuous ring fixed to the sheet. The ring has a generally oval configuration similar to the generally oval configuration of the sheet of biocompatible material. The ring defines a central generally oval region of the patch inside the ring and a circumferential region of the patch outside of the ring. The central generally oval region has a major axis and a minor axis. The ratio of the major axis to the minor axis is about 4:1.