Aortic valve replacement with the Labcor stentless porcine bioprosthesis

Since the very beginning of cardiac surgery and extracorporeal circulation by Gibbon in 1953,1 the search for the ideal valve substitute has been the major concern of those who deal with the art. The main commandments for a valve substitute should include:

1. free opening and competent closure; 2. prompt opening and closure in response to pressure changes; 3. biocompatible, non-thrombogenic, non-antigenic material that causes no damage to the

blood elements; 4. durability for many years; 5. implantation technically feasible, and 6. maintenance of the patient’s lifestyle.