Abstract: An improved holder, system and method for implanting a tissue-type prosthetic mitral heart valve that prevents suture looping and may also constrict the commissure posts of the valve. The holder may include two relatively movable plates, one of which attaches to the valve sewing on the inflow end of the valve ring and the other which attaches via sutures or similar expedient to the valve commissures on the outflow end. Separation of the plates places the sutures in tension and constricts the commissures. The sutures may be strands or filaments, or may be wider bands of flexible biocompatible material. If bands are used, they desirably cover the commissure post tips to further help prevent suture looping thereover. The flexible lengths of material extend directly between commissures of the valve, or may extending radially inward from each commissure to a central upstanding member.

Abstract: A design and method of implantation is disclosed for a flexible annuloplasty system for repairing a valve in a patient's heart. The annuloplasty system includes an elongate, flexible band with a needle attached to one end of the band and a fit adjuster attached to the other end of the band. The band is made of silicone and includes a plurality of fibers that are configured to prevent axial elongation of the band. In addition, the plurality of fibers ensure that a suture will catch on the fibers and prevent the suture from tearing out of the band.