Abstract: The invention involves a method and apparatus for processing biological material, such as heart valves and vascular grafts.

Abstract: The invention involves a method and apparatus for processing biological material, such as heart valves and vascular grafts.

Abstract: A prosthetic heart valve is comprised of a low profile valve body defining a central orifice, and an occluder is supported within the valve body to pivot about an eccentric axis which is established by occluder-retaining means in the form of opposed, concave pocket members formed in inwardly projecting planar portions on the inner wall of the valve body. Lateral extensions on the occluder are insertable into the concave pocket members for movement between extreme limits which are established at least in part by limit stop elements directly associated with the pocket members and a rib portion on each of the lateral extensions. The novel and improved arrangement of the occluder retaining means enables a maximum range of movement while minimizing blood stagnation problems as well as stress and wear upon the valve elements.

Abstract: A low profile natural tissue heart valve with a one-piece fabric covering is applied to a stent in a minimum number of steps so that virtually no seams are exposed. The one-piece covering serves also to enclose and mount the sewing ring to avoid separation from the stent. The procedure employed enables use of bovine pericardium united as a single piece to the exterior of the stent and fixed in position in such a way as to avoid prolapsing in use.