Replacement of heart valves with autologous fascia lata. Surgical technique

Autologous fascia lata graft valves attached on to a Dacron-covered titanium frame have been used since April, 1969, at the General Infirmary at Leeds and the National Heart Hospital and Guy's Hospital, London. Seventy-seven such grafts have been inserted into 70 patients with very good immediate and short-term clinical and haemodynamic results. No systemic emboli have occurred although anticoagulants have not been used. The technique of preparing supported autologous fascia lata grafts for clinical use is outlined in detail and the surgical implantation of these grafts into the mitral, aortic, and tricuspid areas is described.