Patent ID: 11896487

Abstract:
A prosthetic heart valve reinforcement ring is disclosed for reinforcing a natural heart valve with leaflets. The prosthetic ring includes a ring body sized and dimensioned to fit around the annulus of the heart valve. The ring body has an inner surface with a plurality of grooves on the inner surface of the ring body, where each of grooves is configured to grasp a suture. A method of reinforcing a natural heart valve is also disclosed. Sutures are provided around an annulus of a natural heart valve with leaflets. A prosthetic ring is selected that is sized to fit around the annulus. The prosthetic ring is attached to the annulus by inserting sutures into the grooves until the leaflets are properly closed. The fit of the prosthetic ring is adjusted by individually manipulating the sutures in the grooves. The sutures are tied, securing the prosthetic ring in place.