In reviewing the history of mechanical prosthetic valves, it appears evident how many improvements and technical advances have been obtained in this field. Looking to the past, it must also be underlined how some old concepts, which can be considered quite revolutionary for those years, clearly indicate the great skill and ingenuity of those who conceived them. Old ideas have been revitalized by modern concepts, and this is exemplified when considering the developments of bileaflet and sutureless prostheses.
Keywords: Aortic valve replacement; Mechanical prostheses; Mitral valve repolacement; Prosthetic valve replacement.
© Indian Association of Cardiovascular-Thoracic Surgeons 2020.