Moscow surgeons perform rare heart operation

Surgeons of the Bakulev Scientific Center of Cardiovascular Surgery performed a rare operation on Thursday, implanting a heart valve made of animal tissue into a patient. The operation was captured by dozens of TV and photo cameras.

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Surgeons of the Bakulev Scientific Center of Cardiovascular Surgery performed a rare operation on Thursday, implanting a heart valve made of animal tissue into a patient. The operation was captured by dozens of TV and photo cameras.

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Pericardial sacs of calves and pigs were used as biomaterial. The sacs are special connective partitions around these animals’ hearts.

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The bio-implant was tailored to this specific patient.

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Every year in Russia, more than 10,000 patients receive biological prostheses – only 30% of those in need.

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The center performs more than 4,500 open-heart surgeries per year. About 40% are heart valve replacements.

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However, it is often difficult to select the right bio-prosthesis. Animals raised on hormonal additives and antibiotics cannot be used for medical purposes. Photo: The heart valve replacement operation at the Bakulev Center.

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The center has signed a biomaterial supply agreement with the Konovalovo eco-farm, which is known for its innovative methods and eco-friendly technologies. Photo: The mitral valve implanted in the patient.

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The director of the Bakulev Scientific Center, renowned heart surgeon Leo Bokeria, was in charge of the operation.

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Leo Bokeria was one of the first surgeons in the world to perform single-stage operations for treating congenital or acquired heart defects and ischemic heart disease aggravated by life-threatening tachyarrhythmia.

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The director of the Bakulev Scientific Center, renowned heart surgeon Leo Bokeria, after transplanting a heart valve made of animal biomaterial into a patient.