The Context:
By opening and closing, heart valves allow the unidirectional flow of blood during the cardiac cycle, while preventing the backflow of blood. Since defective or diseased heart valves are unable to recover, patients face severe risks of progressive heart failure and death. Pediatric patients face an even more challenging prognosis since they also require re-operations due to the out-growth of their prostheses. Currently, the only treatment option for heart valve dysfunctions is surgical or interventional replacement, of which 200,000 are conducted annually worldwide. Additionally, 1% of all newborns suffer from congenital heart disease, of which 30% concern the heart valves.
Commercially available heart valve prostheses are made from either artificial materials (mechanical valves) or biological materials from foreign sources (xeno- or homo-grafts). While both types show benefits and drawbacks for adult patients, there is no heart valve prosthesis available which meet the needs of pediatric patients.
Objectives are to transform heart valve replacement with a one-time, patient-specific treatment. This innovation aims to:
1. Provide a Lifelong Solution: Eliminating the need for repeat surgeries, especially beneficial for children.
2. Improve Patient Quality of Life: Reducing surgical risks, tissue rejection, and eliminating the need for anticoagulants.
3. Offer Economic and Operational Benefits: Shortening hospital stays and reducing ICU occupancy, potentially saving €16B/year in Europe, thus easing healthcare systems' economic burden.
4. Benefit Stakeholders:
- Enhancing quality of life for patients and their families
- Offering hospitals cost savings and improved care reputation.
- Citizens: They will benefit immensely as the risks of frequent surgeries and complications diminish, enabling them to lead a more fulfilling life.
- Consumer/Client (Hospitals): Adopting GrOwnValve translates to substantial cost savings, elevating their reputation by showcasing a commitment to patient well-being and holistic care.
GrOwnValve stands out with its innovative technology that aims to provide a permanent solution. This aligns with both patient care and healthcare efficiency, aiming for a substantial, lasting medical impact, transforming lives and healthcare systems.
Pathway to Impact:
Our patient specific approach ensures optimal valve function and patient compatibility. Our innovation addresses patient and healthcare needs, aligning with medical care's social aspects. We aim to transform lives and healthcare systems with durable heart valve replacements, making a lasting medical impact.
