The Aix-en-Provence, France-based company designed Epygon to replace mitral valves in those with mitral insufficiency. Epygon is the first biomimetic transcatheter mitral valve to mimic the native mitral valve and restore the natural vortex of blood flow in the left ventricle, according to a news release. The transcatheter implant process enables a fast, minimally invasive procedure that helps avoid open-heart surgery.
Transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) is growing in popularity. Both Medtronic (Intrepid) and Abbott (MitraClip) have offerings for this purpose.
About the outcomes reported by Affluent Medical
An article on the successful first human Epygon implant was published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology: Cardiovascular Interventions. It summarizes the procedure and follow-up at six months, demonstrating continued strong prosthetic performance.
This implant took place in February 2023 via a minimally invasive procedure performed by Dr. Stefano Salizzoni. Salizzoni serves as a surgeon at the Molinette Hospital of Health and Science (Torino, Italy). He also serves as co-investigator of the company’s pilot clinical study.
Recently, the patient reached their one-year follow-up. Examination (through transesophageal echocardiogram) showed excellent valve performance. This examination showed no evidence of mitral regurgitation (MR) or paravalvular leak (PL), Affluent Medical said.
Dr. Mohammad Sarraf of Mayo Clinic said Epygon’s unique design “sets it apart from other mitral valve designs.”
“Its asymmetrical profile and large mono leaflet aim to mimic the natural vortex of bloodstream flow,” Sarraf said. “This design innovation holds promise for improving left ventricle function, particularly in frail patients. By closely emulating the natural structure and flow dynamics of the mitral valve, the Epygon device may enhance overall cardiac performance and contribute to better patient outcomes.”
