| abstract |
A fixation band has a tubular frame and a tube, wherein the tubular frame comprises longitudinally-extending members having a hook on its distal end and fixation means on its proximal end. The tubular frame preferably comprises a laterally-extending member for stabilization. The tube is positioned inside longitudinally-extending members and a sewing cuff is formed in the tube distal to the distalmost end of the longitudinally-extending members. A standard prosthetic valve can be secured to the fixation band by suturing the prosthetic valve's sewing cuff to the fixation band's sewing cuff and the prosthetic valve can be advanced to a valve seat. By pulling the tubular frame proximally, the hooks pass into surrounding tissue so that the fixation band and prosthetic valve are fixed against proximal movement. The fixation means then secure the fixation band to the surrounding tissue so that the prosthetic valve is fixed against distal movement. |