| abstract |
An improved, non-resorbable annuloplasty ring that will provide support for the valve annulus while also promoting healing and/or regeneration of the annulus tissue is disclosed. Healing and/or regeneration of valvular tissue is promoted using a growth factor mixture that has been shown to be capable of promoting growth of a wide range of tissues, including heart valve tissue, and which promotes tissue growth based upon the local tissue environment (i.e., specific cell recruitment and proliferation). Thus, an annuloplasty ring that provides an actual healing response in addition to mechanical support to a dilated heart valve annulus is provided. |