JenaValve Technology, a Germany-based medical device company, has successfully completed the first three implantations of its second-generation transapical JenaValve TAVI system in Argentina.
The second-generation transapical TAVI is a catheter-based aortic valve implantation system that consists of a natural aortic porcine root bioprosthesis fitted with an outer porcine pericardial patch before being sewn onto a Nitinol self-expanding stent.
The clipping mechanism that anchors the JenaValve provides active fixation and resistance to valve migration and makes the valve usable independent from the calcification level of the native valve.
The self-expanding stent has three 'feelers,' which enable a more tactile placement and help to accurately position the prosthesis anatomically correct.
The low profile of the prosthesis in the JenaValve system ensures open flow to the coronaries after implantation.
JenaValve Technology CEO Helmut J Straubinger noted that the company continues to find a need for the JenaValve TAVI system for an expanding patient population throughout the world.
"The use of the transapical access in Argentina is still in its infancy and we believe that the unique and beneficial design of our 2nd generation transapical TAVI system offers physicians and patients an additional safe and efficient treatment opportunity," Straubinger added.