EPIC HEART VALVE
The Epic heart valve is a type of biological heart valve prosthesis developed by St. Jude Medical (now Abbott). It is a frame-based bioprosthesis, meaning it has a structure made of biological tissue (most commonly bovine or porcine pericardium) attached to a frame. Epic valves are known for their low profile and good hemodynamic performance, which can improve the quality of life for patients.
Main Features of Epic valves
Biological prosthesis:
Made of biological tissue, which reduces the need for lifelong use of anticoagulants (blood-thinning drugs) compared to
mechanical prostheses.
Frame-based:
It has a solid frame that supports and stabilizes the biological valve flaps.
Low profile:
Provides an optimal position in the heart, facilitating implantation.
Good hemodynamic characteristics:
Allow blood to flow through the valve with minimal resistance, which improves blood circulation.
Different models:
There are different models of Epic valves, including Epic and Epic Supra, for the aortic and mitral positions.
Advantages of biological prostheses (compared to mechanical ones):
Lower risk of thrombosis, does not require lifelong intake of anticoagulants.
More natural hemodynamic flow of blood.
Disadvantages of biological prostheses (compared to mechanical prostheses):
Shorter service life (usually 10-15 years).
The possibility of degeneration and calcification over time.
Choosing between mechanical and biological prostheses:
The decision to choose a prosthesis is made by the cardiac surgeon based on the individual characteristics of the patient, their age, lifestyle, and other factors. Biological prostheses are often recommended for older patients, as well as those who cannot take anticoagulants. Overall, Epic valves are a modern solution for surgical replacement of heart valves, providing good functionality and quality of life for patients.
Abbott’s portfolio of surgical valves includes the Epic™ platform, which consists of stented tissue valves, including the Epic™ Max and Epic™ Plus valves, as well as the Masters Series and Regent™ mechanical heart valves, which are considered the gold standard and most reliable mechanical heart valves in the world. Learn more about stented tissue valves and mechanical valves.
Биологические клапаны сердца
Epic™ Max Stented Tissue Valve
The Epic™ Max aortic valve with Linx™ anti-calcification technology is designed to provide unmatched hemodynamics*, while maintaining the ease of implantation of the Epic platform, proven durability, and features designed for future interventions.
*Compared to previous versions of the Epic Platform.
Epic™ Plus Supra Stented Tissue Valve
The Epic™ Plus Supra aortic valve with Linx™ anti-calcification technology is designed to provide superior durability and performance, smooth and streamlined implantation, and features that make it easier to install the valve in the aortic position.
*The safety and effectiveness of the “valve in valve” procedures in the Epic™ Plus or Epic™ Plus Supra valves have not been established.
Epic™ Plus Mitral Stented Tissue Valve
The Epic™ Plus mitral valve with Linx™ anti-calcification technology is designed to provide durability and performance, as well as excellent implantability with its low profile, single-incision holder, and compatibility with the TMVR valve*.
*The safety and effectiveness of the “valve in valve” procedures in the Epic™ Plus or Epic™ Plus Supra valves have not been established.
