A study of the novel SinoCrown system for transcatheter aortic valve implantation

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has become a mainstay in treatment for severe symptomatic aortic stenosis (AS) patients1. Over the past decades, various transcatheter devices have been invented and tested for safety and efficacy2. This manuscript aims to report a novel device and initial experience with the SinoCrown system (Lepu Medical Technology Co., Ltd).

SinoCrown has numerous unique design features that distinguish it from other self-expanding valves. It is made up of a self-expanding nitinol stent and three valve leaflets which are made of bovine pericardial tissue (Figure 1). It was designed with a short stent that could reduce the risk of coronary obstruction. The pre-bend designed for the delivery system increases flexibility and controllability during propulsion. For transfemoral delivery, flexible delivery catheters are available in three sizes (18, 19 and 21 Fr). For transapical delivery, a 27 Fr flexible delivery catheter is included. A new version of the catheter is being developed for release which will have a smaller delivery system. The delivery system has a stable and reliable locking/unlocking structure that ensures the unlocking of...