Durability of a novel mechanical aortic valve closure technique during left ventricular assist device support: A comparative case report

Mechanical aortic valve management during left ventricular assist device (LVAD) support remains challenging. Herein, we report a novel mechanical aortic valve closure technique and its structural outcomes after >6 years of LVAD support. Compared with the conventional sandwich technique, the gap-filler technique required a shorter aortic cross-clamp time (28 vs. 69 min) and demonstrated complete structural integrity at heart explantation without patch dislocation or gross thrombus formation, suggesting superior long-term durability.